Suicide is an awful word that we never want someone we love to have to deal with. Unfortunately, it happens more often than it should, and those affected need support with suicide cleanup and the grief process that follows.
If you, or someone you know, is dealing with a suicide, take a look at these simple tips to help support them.
Suicide Cleanup is Hard
One of the first things that will need to happen immediately following the tragedy is bringing in a professional team to clean up any affected area. This can be very hard for someone you love. They have to let strangers into their home. They have to deal with the aftermath when they are already hurting.
If you are able, you can help support your loved one by being with them through this process. You might even be able to initiate and manage the process for them if they will let you. There are many ways to offer emotional support. Unfortunately, when it comes to supporting the family, this is often overlooked.
Just Listen
A family affected by suicide often needs someone to just listen to them. They might need to talk about it out loud. Some may need to just talk about the person and memories. Other people might want to talk about the event and maybe even things leading up to it.
Lend a listening ear. Show no judgment. Don’t try to speak for them. Just let them get it out. There may be tears or anger. For some families, there might even be guilt. They just need you to listen to them and hear what they are saying.
Stop looking at your phone messages. Don’t even think about checking your watch. And definitely don’t tell them how to grieve properly. Just be present for them.
The Little Things
We so often forget to support people with the little things. We know to listen and we can offer to help them plan services. But what about the little daily things that still need to happen?
Could you help them with meals? What about starting laundry or doing some basic cleaning around the house? Maybe you can help with organizing and planning service details and making phone calls to figure it all out. You could also offer to notify the necessary people on their behalf. You can even do this alongside them, if that’s what they prefer.
Just make sure the little details are taken care of so they don’t have to try to juggle it all in the midst of their crisis.
Professional Services
There may come a time when professional services are needed. When a family suffers a loss from suicide, they might need to seek counseling at some point. Keep an eye on your loved one and watch for signs that they are struggling. Encourage them to talk to a professional if it feels like it might be necessary. They can find support groups and many other available resources to work through the trauma and grief.
Professional Suicide Cleanup
Austin Bio Clean is here to help in a time of need. We offer suicide cleanup, but you will also find that we can refer you to other local services as well. Just give us a call.
