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Funeral Homes
Funeral Directors and other funeral service professionals often work with families during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
Funeral homes are one of the first contacts with families and loved ones after a suicide loss, which is an incredibly difficult and overwhelming time. Having the right information and support available in those early moments can make a real difference.
Those impacted by suicide can be at an increased risk for depression, suicidal thoughts, and suicide attempts compared with those grieving other types of losses. A compassionate, nonjudgemental approach by funeral professionals can help create a supportive environment during this difficult time.
The Effects of a Suicide Death
Suicide risk is greater for survivors of a suicide loss. Children of a parent who dies by suicide are four times as likely to attempt suicide themselves. The effects of suicide are even more pronounced in small, close-knit communities like much of South Dakota.
For each suicide that occurs:
135 people are exposed

53 experience short-term disruptions to their life

25 face significant disruption to their life

11 endure profound, lasting impacts to their life

Guide for Funeral Directors
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center provides a comprehensive guide that takes a thoughtful approach to educating funeral professionals on the needs of their clients bereaved by suicide, also known as survivors of suicide loss.
It provides the critical information and resources to help survivors of suicide loss create a meaningful tribute that honors the life of their loved one and begin their journey of grief and healing.
