Suicide Survivors: Be Careful Who You Tell About the Suicide
by Kevin Caruso
In a perfect world, you could tell everyone about the suicide of your loved one and you would not be subjected to ignorance, insensitivity, stupidity, and cruelty.
But we do not live in a perfect world; and thus caution is warranted when contemplating who you will tell about the suicide.
You MUST talk about it; there is no question about that. Keeping the feelings bottled up will make the situation more difficult and potentially cause you to be more prone to suicide. So, again, you MUST talk about the suicide.
But who you tell, and how much you tell them, is YOUR decision, and only your decision.
You undoubtedly have family members and friends who you trust and can open your soul to about the suicide. And you will quickly find that the ones who respond with love and strong support will be your angels here on earth. And you will STRENGTHEN the bond that you already have with them.
Lean on them. They love you and care about you. And you NEED them; so reach out to them when you need to talk.
You also need to get into therapy. This is another MUST. Suicide is intensely painful and you need professional guidance, insight, and support to help you cope.
And if you do not like the therapist, leave and find another one.
If you need two therapists, then see two. Do what is right for you.
You should also try to locate some suicide survivors who will help you. Meeting with a suicide support group is extremely helpful. They have gone through what you are going through and can support you in ways that a traditional support group cannot.
However, if the support group does not work out for you, then do not return.
Remember that YOU decide who to talk with about suicide.
Who should you NOT tell? That is up to you, and you should trust your instincts.
And if people ask about your loved one and you do not want to talk about it, you can respond as follows: “I prefer not to talk about that.” Or use whatever words work best for you.
DO NOT let anyone push you into talking about something that you are not comfortable with. Period.
And lastly, be VERY careful who you associate with after the suicide. MANY people are ignorant and insensitive about matters associated with suicide; and some people are cruel.
You are already in enough pain; you do not need to listen to any losers spewing ignorant B.S. about suicide.
I have talked with countless suicide survivors who have shared innumerable idiotic, hurtful statements that people have made to them with respect to suicide.
So, my friend, be careful. And remember that you, and you alone, will decide who you tell about the suicide.
And always remember that I love you,
Kevin Caruso
If you or someone you know is suicidal, please go to the Home Page of this website for immediate help.
Thank you.
I love you.
Take care,
Kevin Caruso
