Sad statistics show that 33,000 Americans commit suicide every year and they leave behind many more grief-stricken families and friends.  They are known as survivors of suicide.  I counsel these survivors in psychotherapy.  They are one of the emotionally bravest group of people I have ever encountered.  Their loss is unimaginable and yet they show the most incredible resiliency.  The loss becomes a test of their human strength; the courage to move on, to heal, and to love.  One of the rewarding aspects of my profession is having the honor to work with these people, to share with their grief and also to share with their laughter and humor.

 

Fortunately for them, there are national organizations and many support groups across the States.  One such national organization is the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) which has a subsection just for survivors of suicide.  I have provided links below for convenience. 

 

In Arizona, EMPACT Suicide Prevention Center sponsors several support groups for those who have lost loved ones to suicide. 

 

The Arizona Suicide Prevention Coalition (AzSPC) will have its 3rd annual suicide prevention conference for professionals, survivors, and advocates on October 21 and 22 in Phoenix. 

2010 AzSPC Conference      

 

Fortunately for survivors of suicide, a day is set aside by US Congress to recognize their loss.  It is called the National Survivors of Suicide Day.  This year it will be on Saturday, November 20.  Several cities have participated and will again participate by holding simultaneous conferences.  Free webcasts of previous years conferences can be viewed.