Exploring the Formal Supports Used by People Bereaved Through Suicide: A Qualitative Study

Approximately seven Australians take their own lives every day (Mendoza & Rosenberg, 2010), which means that thousands of survivors will require support for their unique grief each year. This study seeks to better understand the personal lived experiences of people bereaved by suicide by exploring their use of formal supports and identifying any unmet needs. In this phenomenological study, 14 individuals bereaved by suicide were interviewed. Thematic analysis of the data identified two major themes supports in the immediate aftermath and ongoing supports. Survivors were inconsistently connected with service providers or provided with information regarding available services. The response of first responders and other professionals influenced the bereavement journey for suicide survivors, and the participants' lived experience ranged from compassionate to cold. Continuing study into postvention is critical to ensure that available supports can meet the needs of those grieving after a suicide. Such efforts may help avert complications associated with the suicide of a loved one.