Social support should be provided for these potentially bereaved and depressed youth. 72 Research on the effectiveness of supportive intervention with suicide survivors is limited. One study concluded that group interventions are initially worthwhile in helping adolescents cope with peer suicide, but that supportive intervention may be needed to offset a decrease over time in self-worth and academics. Another study of bereavement support group outcomes for adult survivors produced significant reductions in overall depression, distress, and despair. 70 Many survivors find that involvement with suicide prevention promotes healing, reduces stigma, and helps them cope with the grief of losing a loved one or friend.
Suicide survivors are at increased risk for suicide.
Bereaved youth and their families may need crisis intervention services, individual counseling, or participation in a peer support group or community-based bereavement support group. Parents of and adults working with bereaved youth should be knowledgeable about local services and should assist youth in getting the support they need. Assist survivors in organizing local bereavement support networks. Assist survivors in connecting with state, regional, and national organizations working to support survivor advocacy in preventing suicide. Support efforts to create community and regional events that increase survivor networking and involvement in suicide prevention activities.