Coping with the death of loved one is emotionally difficult enough when the death is a natural one, but dealing with the aftermath of a suicide can be especially traumatic.  At such a painful time, your funeral director could help you with much more than just the funeral arrangements.  Read on to find out what additional support you could receive from your funeral director following the suicide of a loved one.

Clean-up services

Firearms account for many suicide deaths, and many such deaths occur in the victim's own home, effectively making it a crime scene.  When the police have completed their work, you and your family will have the job of cleaning up, before you can begin the job of sorting out your loved one's possessions and dealing with their estate.  Your funeral director may be able to help you practically in such circumstances by providing a list of local specialist clean-up services that can carry out this job for you.

Support in your community

When someone you love commits suicide, it can be extremely hard to deal with.  At this time, you will benefit from the support of other survivors of suicide loss.  Even if the suicide victim has left an explanatory note, many families are still left wondering why. This hurt and grief can leave people feeling confused and guilty that they did not prevent their loved one's death.  Your funeral director may be able to provide you with the contact details of a good local support agency that can help you come to terms with these feelings and help you and your family to move on.

Some funeral homes provide a 'Calendar of Support' for bereaved relatives.  This idea entails the family of the deceased entering their details in the register or guest book at the funeral home, next to which is placed a blank calendar.  Other mourners are then encouraged to sign up for a 'date' with the grieving family to provide them with emotional and practical support for the first few months after their bereavement.  This can be a very effective way of helping people to cope at a time of such stress and upset.

What to tell others

When someone dies by their own hand, it can be very difficult for their family to know how to deal with people who are curious as to what actually happened.  It can be helpful to sit down with someone and discuss how best to deal with questions like these.  Many funeral homes have access to specialist counsellors who may be able to help you to find the right words in response to such questions.

In conclusion

When a relative dies by suicide, it can be devastating for you and your family, and you may not know where to turn for help.  Your funeral director will have experience in helping many other families who have found themselves in your position and can be a valuable resource at such a distressing and difficult time.

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