A recent Scandinavian study, for example, points to an increased risk of suicide for male coworkers of the decedent. While the first and biggest waves hit the family and those closest to the decedent, the impact spreads outward to others exposed to the death such as friends, witnesses, first responders, treatment providers, and colleagues. Picture a suicide death as a pebble dropped in a pond. Better terms for those who have lost a loved one to suicide include loss survivors and individuals bereaved by suicide. They are often referred to as “survivors” which is another confusing term, particularly as attempt survivors have become an increasingly important voice of hope and resilience in the suicide prevention community. Research has firmly established that family members of individuals who die by suicide - including parents, children, and siblings - are at increased risk of suicide. Although postvention is implemented after a suicide it is essential that we prepare for postvention before a suicide – by, for example, training first responders, coroners, funeral directors, faith leaders, emergency departments, clinicians, and journalists. Postvention refers to activities which reduce risk and promote healing after a suicide death. The term “postvention” is a great example of suicide prevention jargon that means little to those outside the field and may actually contribute to misunderstanding.
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