How to Support a Loved One After a Suicide Attempt
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How to Support a Loved One After a Suicide Attempt
When someone you love survives a suicide attempt, it changes everything. There’s relief that they’re still here — but also fear, confusion, and a quiet ache that lingers in the air. You want to help, but you don’t always know how.
I know, because I’ve been on the other side of that pain — the one who wasn’t sure she wanted to keep living. And I’ve also seen how hard it can be for those who love you to know what to say, or how to hold space for something so heavy.
After my own attempt, I remember sitting quietly in a room, unsure how to begin rebuilding what was broken — especially the relationship with my son. He didn’t have the words, and neither did I. But one night, he simply sat beside me and said, “I’m glad you’re still here, Mom.”
That moment changed something in me. He didn’t try to fix it or fill the silence. He just showed up.
And that small act of presence reminded me that love can live even in the cracks of our pain.
💜 1. Start with Presence, Not Pressure
You don’t have to have the perfect words. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply be there — sit beside them, send a text, or let them know you care.
Don’t rush them to talk or make promises. Let your presence be enough.
💬 2. Avoid Judgment or Guilt
You may feel hurt, scared, or even angry — those feelings are normal. But try not to let guilt or blame take over.
Say things like:
“I’m so thankful you’re still here.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone.”
“You matter to me.”
Avoid comments like:
“How could you do this to me?”
“You just need to think positive.”
Compassion heals. Judgment wounds.
🕊️ 3. Be Consistent — Not Just in the Crisis
After the initial crisis, people often assume things are “back to normal.” But recovery takes time. Keep checking in — not with pressure, but with care.
A simple “thinking of you today” text can mean more than you’ll ever know.
🌿 4. Encourage Help — Without Forcing It
Therapy, counseling, or faith support can help tremendously, but don’t push. Offer, don’t demand.
Try: “Would you like me to help you find someone to talk to?”
Sometimes just knowing they’re not facing that step alone makes all the difference.
💗 5. Take Care of Yourself, Too
Supporting someone through their recovery is heavy work.
Give yourself permission to rest, process, and seek your own support. You can’t pour from an empty cup — and your wellness matters, too.
🌸 Closing: The Power of Staying
When someone survives a suicide attempt, they’re given a second chance — but they need a soft place to land.
Your love, patience, and presence can become that safe place.
I’ll never forget the quiet strength my son showed me — not through perfect words, but through simple love that said, “I’m not going anywhere.”
That love gave me the courage to stay.
And now, through my mission with 7 Semicolon Couture, I hope to remind others that compassion, awareness, and connection can truly change lives.
If this message spoke to your heart, please share it. You never know who might need to read it today.
I’ll be sharing more of my personal journey — and the lessons learned through survival and healing — in my upcoming book. 💫