Postvention Attempt - Alliance for Suicide Prevention of Larimer County

Postvention after a Suicide attempt

The goals of postvention responses are to facilitate healthy healing from a suicide attempt at both an individual and community level, and to prevent future suicide attempts. A persons suicide attempt is a traumatic experience for the whole community. Our response, as a community, can decrease the likelihood of more attempts. How we answer the following questions depends on who we are in the community.

           How do we support a person recovering from the attempt?
           How do we support the friends and family members affected by the attempt?
           How do we build a support network for all those affected in our community?

Often, families, friends and communities shy away from survivors of suicide loss because of the stigma surrounding the death. Simply being present with the survivor and allowing them to tell their story reduces their sense of isolation and stigma. Other common needs for survivors include:
          1. Survivor support groups – Research has found that meeting others who have experienced a similar loss has been helpful for many survivors.
          2. Counseling referrals
          3. Practical assistance – Refer for forensic restoration; help with death notifications and insurance claims; encourage rest, food, water, etc.
          4. Linking to resources – Provide the survivor with resources they may need for counseling or other services.

Postvention for Schools

After a Suicide Attempt: School Toolkit

As a school, what can you do to help your students and faculty after a suicide attempt. Having policies and protocols in place can help take the immediate burden off students, teachers, and counselors. In addition, having resources readily available to students, parents and teachers is imperative. 
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Postvention For Parents

Coping after a suicide attempt

When a child tries to take their own life, it is difficult for a parent to comprehend their decision. Adjusting to life after a suicide attempt is not easy for anyone in the family. Following are some ways to navigate life after your child’s suicide attempt.
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Postvention for students

When a friend attempts suicide

When someone you love attempts to take their life, it can evoke a range of strong emotions. How can you deal with your own emotions, while helping your friend with a second chance.
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If you would like to learn more about how our programs can help your organization, school, or community group please get in touch with our team by submitting a Contact form

are you in crisis?

If you or someone you know is having a mental health crisis, call or text Crisis Hotline 988