It’s natural to want to understand exactly what happened and why. This is part of how we try to make sense of such a deep and sudden loss. Sometimes there may have been signs, like the person talking about wanting to die, or showing changes in mood or behaviour. Other times, there may have been no obvious signs at all. You might find yourself going over things, wondering what you missed. Please know this is common, and it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong.
Suicide is deeply complex. It’s rarely caused by one single thing. Contributing factors include a mix of social, cultural, biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Mental distress and mental illness can also play a role. People who die by suicide are often trying to escape overwhelming mamae/pain – emotional pain that can be as intense and real as physical pain. They may not have wanted to die, but rather, were trying to end the pain they were experiencing. These factors can prevent the person from reaching out or accessing the support that’s around them. If you’re looking to understand more, you may find it helpful to read trusted, evidence-based resources.
Many people bereaved by suicide have found comfort in learning from research and personal stories. You’ll find some recommended reading below:
- Why people die by suicide by Thomas E. Joiner
- Myths about suicide by Thomas E. Joiner
- Chase the Rainbow by Poorna Bell
- After Suicide: Help for the Bereaved by Dr Sheila Clark
- After Suicide Loss: Coping with Your Grief by Bob Baugher and Jack Jordan.
- It’s OK That You’re Not OK by Megan Devine.
- Why Suicide? Questions and Answers about Suicide, Suicide Prevention, and Coping with the Suicide of Someone You Know by Eric Marcus
- When it is darkest: Why people die by suicide and what we can do to prevent it by Rory O'Connor.