How to Provide Support in the Wake of Suicide
It can be hard to know what to do when someone you know loses a loved one to suicide—or needs help himself. The executive director of Suicide Prevention Services offers some advice.
Suicide can be a difficult topic to broach. But the conversations surrounding a death such as the one that occurred Thursday in La Grange can be an important part of the healing, said Stephanie Weber, executive director of Suicide Prevention Services in Batavia. “It shouldn’t be a stigma,” she said. “It shouldn’t be a secret.” When you know someone who has been directly impacted by the death, such as a family member or close friend, Weber said to first approach the person by giving him or her a hug and saying, “I am so sorry for your loss.” Then offer some concrete help, whether it’s bringing over a home-cooked meal or giving them a ride as they make arrangements. And simply let them talk. “Listen to them,” Weber said. “Listen to them talk…
In this Article:
Mary Jane
8:06 am on Saturday, April 13, 2013
So devastated by this tragedy which affects all of us in LaGrange. My prayers for the family. more ›