If this is an emergency, please call the Suicide Hotline at

1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) or locally 453-6616

When Suicide has Happened

Why did this happen? It happened because your loved one felt psychological pain so severe and unbearable that they believed could only be stopped if they died. The pain was caused by depression, which was caused by something in their life and/or brain.

Why didn’t my loved one tell me? Some may find it hard to ask for help or to admit mental illness, even if it may be temporary. Some may feel shame at being suicidal. Intense pain is distracting and consuming. It doesn’t mean that they didn't care for or love those suffering because of the loss. Tunnel vision is part of being suicidal.

Why didn’t someone do something? Even professionals sometimes have a hard time seeing that someone’s suicidal. Misplaced concerns about privacy and confidentiality may deter warnings to others. There are no reliable predictors of suicide.

Why do I feel like I am going crazy? You have suffered the greatest and most horrible emotional shock of your life. Suicide is a severe traumatic loss—sudden, unexpected, and violent. You feel betrayed, out of control, disoriented, and hurt. This is what happens after suicide. Nobody’s ever ready for it, and it overwhelms anyone whom it directly affects.

Why can’t I get over this? The loss is too fresh and you are too traumatized. The first weeks and months are very hard and your emotions may be in turmoil for a long time. You never really “get over” your loss, but you eventually come to terms with it.

Why doesn’t anything help me? You can be helped. It’s OK to ask for help! Call us if you need to talk one-on-one at (559)-322-5877. We do not have a full time staff in the office, but will arrange for someone to get back to you as soon as possible.

© 2005 Fresno Survivors of Suicide Loss
2585 E. Perrin, Suite 102
Fresno, CA 93720
Phone: (559) 322-5877
Email: sosfresno@yahoo.com

A support group and suicide prevention education program located in Fresno, CA