Support Groups
Survivors of suicide have increased risks of developing both physical and mental health conditions related to their grief. At one of the most isolating and confusing times in one's life, finding the right path toward healing is essential. According to SOS: A Handbook for Survivors, “Support groups provide one of the most valuable resources for suicide survivors. Here, you can meet and talk with (or just listen to, if you prefer) people who are in your shoes. You can openly express your feelings and experiences with a group of caring individuals who will never judge you…” (Jackson, 2003, p. 31)
What is a support group?
Support groups offer bereaved individuals a source of connection to those who have been through the same things as them. In her book Touched by Suicide, Fine describes how talking to fellow survivors “assures me, once again, that I am not alone, and gives me the courage and language to reach out to others for support” (Myers & Fine, 2006, p.180).
Survivors can choose to attend a more general group made up of attendees bereaved from different types of death, or a group specific to suicide. Groups are often led by "veteran" survivors, trained mental health professionals, trained facilitators, or a combination, and good leadership is integral to the process (Cerel et. al, 2009). One common format in suicide survivor support groups described by Fine has the newer members tell their stories first, as they usually have the most to get off their chest. Once they have confided to the group and its veteran members, support and tried and true coping mechanisms can be offered to the individual (Cerel et. al, 2009).
What are the benefits?
In a study conducted by McMenamy, Jordon, and Mitchell in 2008, 94% of survivors who attended support groups found them to be helpful. The identification offered to survivors through attending group sessions works to validate survivors in their experiences; in particular, "By comparing their situations with others, [survivors] also begin to understand that they don't have a monopoly on pain" (Fine, 1997, p. 151). This speaks to the overwhelming feeling of sorrow and isolation commonly experienced by survivors, as they tend to forget others have been where they are now. Recognizing that veteran group members have been in the same spot as new survivors and were able to come out the other side offers inspiration and hope. Contributing to the conversation during support groups is not only helpful as a means of venting and creating new relationships, but also in that it brings great satisfaction to see your story help someone else. Jackson writes, “In addition to receiving help, you’ll find tremendous benefit in the help your testimony will undoubtedly offer to others” (2003, p. 28).
Support Groups in New England
Click on the names of each support group to visit their website!
This non-profit organization was created by survivors, and it offers online support through a variety of support groups tailored to different survivor situations. In addition to support groups, a 24/7 online forum is available for survivors to connect. This provides an array of options for varying levels of comfort.
Offered by The Samaritans on Cape Cod and the Islands, Safe Place provides a free support group experience for those who have lost someone to suicide. Participants are able to bring a family member or friend for support. The group is run by trained volunteers, some of whom are survivors themselves.
NAMI NH offers a wide variety of support groups throughout the state, with 10 being dedicated solely to survivors. In-person and virtual meetings are available to cater to all comfort levels. Facilitators have lived experiences related to suicide bereavement, granting them the first-hand knowledge to help others.
This group is specifically for women who have lost their partner or spouse to suicide. Meetings are held virtually and provide a safe space tailored for women with a shared traumatic experience to support each other. The group is facilitated by two long-term survivors of partner suicide.
Hope Floats offers many different support groups for the bereaved. Groups specific to the loss of a child, pregnancy, sibling, parent, and spouse are all available. There are also groups specific to those bereaved to overdose and suicide. Virtual and in-person style meetings are available. Most of the groups are peer-led by those who have experienced the specific type of loss themselves.