CT Suicide & Traumatic Death Flashcards

What term describes individuals who have lost someone to suicide?

Answer: Suicide loss survivors or suicide survivors

Those bereaved by suicide are called 'suicide loss survivors,' distinguishing them from individuals who survived a personal suicide attempt.

Which emotion is uniquely prominent in suicide bereavement compared to other types of loss?

Answer: Guilt and self-blame

Guilt and self-blame are especially prominent in suicide grief, as survivors frequently question what they could have done to prevent the death.

The 'stigma of suicide' in bereavement refers to:

Answer: Social shame and judgment experienced by those bereaved by suicide

Suicide bereaved individuals often face social stigma including judgment, shame, and social isolation, which can significantly complicate their grief.

Research suggests that suicide loss survivors are at increased risk for:

Answer: Suicidal ideation and suicide attempts themselves

Studies show that suicide loss survivors face elevated risk for suicidal ideation and attempts, making postvention support critically important.

What is 'postvention' in the context of suicide?

Answer: Supportive interventions for those affected by a suicide death

Postvention refers to supportive interventions and services provided to individuals, families, and communities following a suicide death.

Which questions are most commonly reported by suicide loss survivors?

Answer: 'Why did they do it?' and 'Could I have prevented it?'

The search for 'why' and the haunting question of whether the death could have been prevented are hallmarks of suicide bereavement.