I witnessed a suicide

Coping after seeing a suicide

Witnessing a suicide, or discovering someone after they have died by suicide, is a traumatic experience.

Whether you knew the person who has died or not, you may feel a range of emotions - or feel like it has not affected you at all.

There is no right way to react to what has happened. However you may feel, talking to someone about what you’ve been through and getting support is a good idea.

Pictured: Natalie and Anton founders of A Place Called Here, a support group for those living with suicide bereavement.

It is common to think you could have done something to stop someone from taking their own life, especially if you were there when they died or shortly after.

It can be painful to have these thoughts, but it’s important to remember that suicide is complex. Thinking that you or others could have prevented it assumes we have more influence over other people than we actually do.

Support is available

The information on First Hand’s website will help you to cope in the days and weeks following a suicide and help you to manage your emotions.

The Support after Suicide Partnership provide advice on accessing support and guidance on what to do to care for yourself.