WHAT TO DO AFTER SOMEONE’S SUICIDE?

The moment after someone’s suicide is tough, especially if it is someone we care about. Try to keep in mind that asking yourself “Why?” will not help you to get through this difficult time. Try to calm yourself down and contact someone who you think could help you, such as a relative or a friend.

We want to help you to cope with this moment by giving you this important information:

Who should I call?

• If you are in Peru and have news of a suicide, you need to contact the police; “Policía Nacional”, by calling 105. They are the ones in charge of contacting the public ministry; “Ministerio Público”, and sending a prosecutor; “Fiscal”. The prosecutor is the only person in charge of the body and its transfer to the local morgue.

Do I need to see the body?

• This decision is only yours. Several studies show that those who decided to see the body, felt that they had taken the right decision and, although they kept this image in mind, they also felt that this helped them to accept the reality of death. It is a personal decision, so take your time and think of what is best for you.

Will there be an autopsy?

• In the case of suicide, an autopsy is mandatory in order to certify the death.

What shall I tell others about what happened?

• It is normal to feel reluctant to tell someone else that the death of a person you cared about was a consequence of suicide. We can’t tell you what is right or wrong, nevertheless, you should know that most suicide survivors who were honest about what happened, felt better about it in the long term. One more important reason for being honest, is the fact that this allows family and friends to support you in a genuine way.

What about children? Should I tell them what happened?

• It is important to tell the truth about what happened. Remember that, generally, people talk and children could overhear adults discussing or speculating about what happened.
• When telling this news to young children or teenagers, it is important to give them accurate information, motivating them to ask whatever they need and, at the same time, offering them calmness.
• Encourage them to understand that they are not responsible and that nothing they did or said was the cause.
• Be prepared to discuss this several times during the first days and weeks, as well as in different times during the child’s or teen’s life.

We suggest you to contact a psychologist for support in coping with this.