Bill of Rights for those Bereaved by Suicide

Hi @Appleblossom I don't often visit 'this side' but this Topic really stood out for me.

I have a question in regards to point 2 - specifically 'know the truth about the suicide' - is this in relation to knowing the actual means or the reasoning why? I think there is a very large gap between these two and a much larger conversation that would have to happen if it is the latter. Interested in your perspective on this @Appleblossom

Hi @Appleblossom

A very enlightening post. I never knew there was such a bill proposed in recognition for those bereaved by suicide. As when a person dies naturally there is a natural grieving process, but when one is bereaved by the loss of a loved one through suicide - it is a whole different scenario. And judgement and some people around us not being able to empathise can add salt to the injury. The pain unspeakable for those left behind too. I am so glad you shed some light on this topic.

It is a very emotive topic for me that I nearly passed on by, but too important for those left bereaved to ignore also.

I, like @Former-Member, would be interested to know if there was something similar for those effected by loved ones who have attempted also, with the emphasis of the topic being of the effects on those left behind.

I can relate to both sides of this tragedy as having survived myself a serious suicide attempt when I had a mental breakdown, and then some years later witnessing my daughter's attempt - both due to mental illness and despair. To be totally honest when I look back at that time I attempted what I can see in hindsight is that it was a choice I made at the time to end the pain. It was becoming unbearable for me as I could not see beyond it. But glad I did not suceed as for me it would of been a mistake. I see that now but could not see that at the time. And can totally relate to why one would do it and to the pain passed on.

@Zoe7 Perhaps the bill is referring to the fear, shame, euphemisms and secrecy that used to shroud a suicide. I tend to see "truth" as a complicated term and when it refers to suicide even more so. Yes there are probably grey areas there.

@Former-Member It is hard. I have walked on both sides too. I thought the Bill addressed a few of my wishes that had not come true... wouldn't it be nice ....

As suicidal ideation is a common problem for people struggling with mental health issues. I though it worth putting out there.

Hello @Appleblossom

It would be nice my friend. I am very glad you put it out there as it is a very important topic to address and very relevant on here. Thank you for sharing it xx

Hi @Former-Member

Thank you for letting me know about the articles on grief in caring and diagnosis. I can certainly relate and will search for them here and read them.

Oh @Former-Member, I was not aware of your husband's suicide attempt. This must be devastating for you as it was for me with my daughter. I found I was strong in the months after but the effects/grief hit me sometime much further along afterwards. I am still dealing with it. I think that was because I wouldnt allow myself to feel that at first (although shock is unavoidable), to remain strong for her. It's now she has turned a corner it's hitting me.

It was devastating for my husband too with my own attempt years ago and we have discussed this. I don't want to go into this too much further - I just want you to know how much I feel for you and how much I do genuinely care. The pain is great, I know. As @Appleblossom stated this is so hard. And sometimes no words to describe are adequate, but being a survivor of an attempt myself and witnessing my daughter's renewed zest for life after hers - the tide can turn and moving forward not looking back is indeed very possible. Wishing you and your husband complete healing. Holding you close to my heart ❤️