We're often taught that grief progresses through familiar stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. While these emotions can certainly be part of a grief journey, losing someone to suicide often introduces a much more complex emotional landscape. Shame, guilt, fear, and loneliness can become pervasive, sitting heavily alongside or even overshadowing the more commonly recognized stages.
The familiar five-stage model simply isn't enough to capture the unique pain of suicide loss. For some, the initial anger or denial might never fully fade. For others, depression can become a persistent companion, making true acceptance feel out of reach. And for many, the overwhelming feelings of guilt and shame can be all-consuming.
This handbook aims to provide you with resources and strategies that may be helpful on your path to healing.
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