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AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTIONHealing Conversations: www.afsp.org/healing-conversationsHCCMontana@afsp.orgALLIANCE OF HOPEwww.allianceofhope.orgAn online community of suicide loss support, resources, and connections.988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINEFree and confidential support 24/7 for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resource advice provided by a trained volunteer in your state.GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORTNavigating Conversations Around Losing Someone to SuicideRESOURCESSCAN OUR QR CODEFor more information on finding a therapist, a calendar of supportive groups and NCF trainings, and other resources.Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can vary across populations, and risk and protective factors for suicide may also differ. Understanding specific variables that might apply to someone you are concerned about can be helpful in demonstrating understanding during difficult conversations. Preschool and KindergartenSTICK TO THE BASICSIf your child asks about someone who died by suicide, keep it simple. Acknowledge that the person died because they were sick and acknowledge that it can be sad when people die.Ages 7-10GIVE SHORT, TRUE ANSWERSIt is still important that parents stress that death can be sad and the person died of an illness. You can name it “depression.” To avoid overwhelming them with too much information, wait for them to ask further questions and then answer those simply and honestly.Ages 11+BE CONCRETE By middle school, kids are beginning to experience complicated emotions and it is important that we ask clear questions about what they’ve heard. This way, you can judge where they are and meet them there. Have a conversation with them about the information in this brochure, such as the risks that come with a suicide loss and the importance of taking care of themselves. Be honest and stick to facts. You can utilize this opportunity to discuss if they’ve ever had thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a friend.TALK TO KIDSHOW TO SAFELYABOUT A SUICIDEWHO WE AREThe Nate Chute Foundation is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports, educates, and empowers our communities to promote mental wellness and reduce suicide.WHAT WE DOWe provide training to schools, businesses and organizations.NATE CHUTE FOUNDATION406.730.2521www.natechutefoundation.orginfo@natechutefoundation.org @natechutefoundationSCAN HEREScan here for more information on what we do, how to donate, LEARN training, our calendar of events, how to find a local therapist, mental wellness information or additional resources.
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTIONHealing Conversations: www.afsp.org/healing-conversationsHCCMontana@afsp.orgALLIANCE OF HOPEwww.allianceofhope.orgAn online community of suicide loss support, resources, and connections.988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINEFree and confidential support 24/7 for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resource advice provided by a trained volunteer in your state.GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORTNavigating Conversations Around Losing Someone to SuicideRESOURCESSCAN OUR QR CODEFor more information on finding a therapist, a calendar of supportive groups and NCF trainings, and other resources.Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can vary across populations, and risk and protective factors for suicide may also differ. Understanding specific variables that might apply to someone you are concerned about can be helpful in demonstrating understanding during difficult conversations. Preschool and KindergartenSTICK TO THE BASICSIf your child asks about someone who died by suicide, keep it simple. Acknowledge that the person died because they were sick and acknowledge that it can be sad when people die.Ages 7-10GIVE SHORT, TRUE ANSWERSIt is still important that parents stress that death can be sad and the person died of an illness. You can name it “depression.” To avoid overwhelming them with too much information, wait for them to ask further questions and then answer those simply and honestly.Ages 11+BE CONCRETE By middle school, kids are beginning to experience complicated emotions and it is important that we ask clear questions about what they’ve heard. This way, you can judge where they are and meet them there. Have a conversation with them about the information in this brochure, such as the risks that come with a suicide loss and the importance of taking care of themselves. Be honest and stick to facts. You can utilize this opportunity to discuss if they’ve ever had thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a friend.TALK TO KIDSHOW TO SAFELYABOUT A SUICIDEWHO WE AREThe Nate Chute Foundation is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports, educates, and empowers our communities to promote mental wellness and reduce suicide.WHAT WE DOWe provide training to schools, businesses and organizations.NATE CHUTE FOUNDATION406.730.2521www.natechutefoundation.orginfo@natechutefoundation.org @natechutefoundationSCAN HEREScan here for more information on what we do, how to donate, LEARN training, our calendar of events, how to find a local therapist, mental wellness information or additional resources.
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTIONHealing Conversations: www.afsp.org/healing-conversationsHCCMontana@afsp.orgALLIANCE OF HOPEwww.allianceofhope.orgAn online community of suicide loss support, resources, and connections.988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINEFree and confidential support 24/7 for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resource advice provided by a trained volunteer in your state.GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORTNavigating Conversations Around Losing Someone to SuicideRESOURCESSCAN OUR QR CODEFor more information on finding a therapist, a calendar of supportive groups and NCF trainings, and other resources.Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can vary across populations, and risk and protective factors for suicide may also differ. Understanding specific variables that might apply to someone you are concerned about can be helpful in demonstrating understanding during difficult conversations. Preschool and KindergartenSTICK TO THE BASICSIf your child asks about someone who died by suicide, keep it simple. Acknowledge that the person died because they were sick and acknowledge that it can be sad when people die.Ages 7-10GIVE SHORT, TRUE ANSWERSIt is still important that parents stress that death can be sad and the person died of an illness. You can name it “depression.” To avoid overwhelming them with too much information, wait for them to ask further questions and then answer those simply and honestly.Ages 11+BE CONCRETE By middle school, kids are beginning to experience complicated emotions and it is important that we ask clear questions about what they’ve heard. This way, you can judge where they are and meet them there. Have a conversation with them about the information in this brochure, such as the risks that come with a suicide loss and the importance of taking care of themselves. Be honest and stick to facts. You can utilize this opportunity to discuss if they’ve ever had thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a friend.TALK TO KIDSHOW TO SAFELYABOUT A SUICIDEWHO WE AREThe Nate Chute Foundation is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports, educates, and empowers our communities to promote mental wellness and reduce suicide.WHAT WE DOWe provide training to schools, businesses and organizations.NATE CHUTE FOUNDATION406.730.2521www.natechutefoundation.orginfo@natechutefoundation.org @natechutefoundationSCAN HEREScan here for more information on what we do, how to donate, LEARN training, our calendar of events, how to find a local therapist, mental wellness information or additional resources.
BE PATIENTKnow that everyone grieves at their own pace. Grief can ebb and flow; you may begin to feel better only for tough emotions to return. This is normal and can feel overwhelming.TAKE CARE OF YOURSELFTaking care of your whole self is important. Practice healthy habits, such as eating healthfully, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Connect with things that bring you joy, and find positive outlets for your emotions.SEEK SUPPORTCounselors can guide you through your grief process so it feels less chaotic or confusing. They can support you as you ride the ups and downs of the process that often accompany surviving a loss.CONNECT WITH OTHERSYou do not have to cope alone. Find comfort by connecting with others who care. Attending a support group or chatting online with other survivors may also be helpful. KNOW THE RISKSPeople who are impacted by a suicide loss often struggle with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Experiencing suicidal ideation following a loss is not unusual, and it is important to talk about these things with a friend, trusted adult, or mental health professional. COMMON EMOTIONS PEOPLE FEEL•Shock•Grief•Guilt•AngerCoping with a loss by suicide, whether it be a loved one, a friend, or someone you only know in passing, can be extremely difficult and confusing. Suicide is a traumatic event that can generate a host of complicated and uncomfortable emotions. Whether you are surviving a loss or find yourself supporting someone else who is grieving, these tools and this information may help.Coping with Suicide Loss is Complicated There is no right or wrong way to feel or act. Practice self-compassion and try not to judge your own grief journey.COMMON QUESTIONSThree common questions you may be wondering or others may be asking you.IS IT OKAY TO TALK ABOUT THE DETAILS?Knowing the answers to questions like “was there a suicide note?” and “how did they do it?” might feel like it will bring closure/comfort during this really difficult time. We caution, however, that this information can be distressing, especially to people who have previously attempted suicide or are experiencing their own ideation. We do not recommend discussing these details; and, if they are being spoken about, share your knowledge that discussing details can increase risk. IS THIS MY FAULT?Guilt often plays a unique and intense role in the grief process for someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, as opposed to someone who is grieving a loss from more natural causes. This can stem from feelings of responsibility, regret, or the belief that they could have done something to prevent the tragedy. While suicide can be prevented in some cases, it’s important to remember that the reason someone ends their life is a culmination of many factors and/or events—not the result of your actions or perceived inactions.WHY DID THEY DO THIS?Many survivors of suicide want to know why their loved one chose to end their life. The answer is complex and mental health issues are almost always a part of the equation, whether the person was being treated for them, or not. These mental health struggles can distort one’s perception of reality, making people believe that their situation is hopeless and that no one can help them, reinforcing their desire to end the pain, rather than a clear desire to end their life.•Confusion•Shame•Anxiety•Relief •Sadness•Rejection•Isolation•IrritabilityHELPFUL WAYSTO COPE WITHSUICIDE LOSS
BE PATIENTKnow that everyone grieves at their own pace. Grief can ebb and flow; you may begin to feel better only for tough emotions to return. This is normal and can feel overwhelming.TAKE CARE OF YOURSELFTaking care of your whole self is important. Practice healthy habits, such as eating healthfully, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Connect with things that bring you joy, and find positive outlets for your emotions.SEEK SUPPORTCounselors can guide you through your grief process so it feels less chaotic or confusing. They can support you as you ride the ups and downs of the process that often accompany surviving a loss.CONNECT WITH OTHERSYou do not have to cope alone. Find comfort by connecting with others who care. Attending a support group or chatting online with other survivors may also be helpful. KNOW THE RISKSPeople who are impacted by a suicide loss often struggle with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Experiencing suicidal ideation following a loss is not unusual, and it is important to talk about these things with a friend, trusted adult, or mental health professional. COMMON EMOTIONS PEOPLE FEEL•Shock•Grief•Guilt•AngerCoping with a loss by suicide, whether it be a loved one, a friend, or someone you only know in passing, can be extremely difficult and confusing. Suicide is a traumatic event that can generate a host of complicated and uncomfortable emotions. Whether you are surviving a loss or find yourself supporting someone else who is grieving, these tools and this information may help.Coping with Suicide Loss is Complicated There is no right or wrong way to feel or act. Practice self-compassion and try not to judge your own grief journey.COMMON QUESTIONSThree common questions you may be wondering or others may be asking you.IS IT OKAY TO TALK ABOUT THE DETAILS?Knowing the answers to questions like “was there a suicide note?” and “how did they do it?” might feel like it will bring closure/comfort during this really difficult time. We caution, however, that this information can be distressing, especially to people who have previously attempted suicide or are experiencing their own ideation. We do not recommend discussing these details; and, if they are being spoken about, share your knowledge that discussing details can increase risk. IS THIS MY FAULT?Guilt often plays a unique and intense role in the grief process for someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, as opposed to someone who is grieving a loss from more natural causes. This can stem from feelings of responsibility, regret, or the belief that they could have done something to prevent the tragedy. While suicide can be prevented in some cases, it’s important to remember that the reason someone ends their life is a culmination of many factors and/or events—not the result of your actions or perceived inactions.WHY DID THEY DO THIS?Many survivors of suicide want to know why their loved one chose to end their life. The answer is complex and mental health issues are almost always a part of the equation, whether the person was being treated for them, or not. These mental health struggles can distort one’s perception of reality, making people believe that their situation is hopeless and that no one can help them, reinforcing their desire to end the pain, rather than a clear desire to end their life.•Confusion•Shame•Anxiety•Relief •Sadness•Rejection•Isolation•IrritabilityHELPFUL WAYSTO COPE WITHSUICIDE LOSS
BE PATIENTKnow that everyone grieves at their own pace. Grief can ebb and flow; you may begin to feel better only for tough emotions to return. This is normal and can feel overwhelming.TAKE CARE OF YOURSELFTaking care of your whole self is important. Practice healthy habits, such as eating healthfully, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Connect with things that bring you joy, and find positive outlets for your emotions.SEEK SUPPORTCounselors can guide you through your grief process so it feels less chaotic or confusing. They can support you as you ride the ups and downs of the process that often accompany surviving a loss.CONNECT WITH OTHERSYou do not have to cope alone. Find comfort by connecting with others who care. Attending a support group or chatting online with other survivors may also be helpful. KNOW THE RISKSPeople who are impacted by a suicide loss often struggle with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Experiencing suicidal ideation following a loss is not unusual, and it is important to talk about these things with a friend, trusted adult, or mental health professional. COMMON EMOTIONS PEOPLE FEEL•Shock•Grief•Guilt•AngerCoping with a loss by suicide, whether it be a loved one, a friend, or someone you only know in passing, can be extremely difficult and confusing. Suicide is a traumatic event that can generate a host of complicated and uncomfortable emotions. Whether you are surviving a loss or find yourself supporting someone else who is grieving, these tools and this information may help.Coping with Suicide Loss is Complicated There is no right or wrong way to feel or act. Practice self-compassion and try not to judge your own grief journey.COMMON QUESTIONSThree common questions you may be wondering or others may be asking you.IS IT OKAY TO TALK ABOUT THE DETAILS?Knowing the answers to questions like “was there a suicide note?” and “how did they do it?” might feel like it will bring closure/comfort during this really difficult time. We caution, however, that this information can be distressing, especially to people who have previously attempted suicide or are experiencing their own ideation. We do not recommend discussing these details; and, if they are being spoken about, share your knowledge that discussing details can increase risk. IS THIS MY FAULT?Guilt often plays a unique and intense role in the grief process for someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, as opposed to someone who is grieving a loss from more natural causes. This can stem from feelings of responsibility, regret, or the belief that they could have done something to prevent the tragedy. While suicide can be prevented in some cases, it’s important to remember that the reason someone ends their life is a culmination of many factors and/or events—not the result of your actions or perceived inactions.WHY DID THEY DO THIS?Many survivors of suicide want to know why their loved one chose to end their life. The answer is complex and mental health issues are almost always a part of the equation, whether the person was being treated for them, or not. These mental health struggles can distort one’s perception of reality, making people believe that their situation is hopeless and that no one can help them, reinforcing their desire to end the pain, rather than a clear desire to end their life.•Confusion•Shame•Anxiety•Relief •Sadness•Rejection•Isolation•IrritabilityHELPFUL WAYSTO COPE WITHSUICIDE LOSS
BE PATIENTKnow that everyone grieves at their own pace. Grief can ebb and flow; you may begin to feel better only for tough emotions to return. This is normal and can feel overwhelming.TAKE CARE OF YOURSELFTaking care of your whole self is important. Practice healthy habits, such as eating healthfully, staying hydrated, and getting adequate sleep. Connect with things that bring you joy, and find positive outlets for your emotions.SEEK SUPPORTCounselors can guide you through your grief process so it feels less chaotic or confusing. They can support you as you ride the ups and downs of the process that often accompany surviving a loss.CONNECT WITH OTHERSYou do not have to cope alone. Find comfort by connecting with others who care. Attending a support group or chatting online with other survivors may also be helpful. KNOW THE RISKSPeople who are impacted by a suicide loss often struggle with feelings of hopelessness and helplessness. Experiencing suicidal ideation following a loss is not unusual, and it is important to talk about these things with a friend, trusted adult, or mental health professional. COMMON EMOTIONS PEOPLE FEEL•Shock•Grief•Guilt•AngerCoping with a loss by suicide, whether it be a loved one, a friend, or someone you only know in passing, can be extremely difficult and confusing. Suicide is a traumatic event that can generate a host of complicated and uncomfortable emotions. Whether you are surviving a loss or find yourself supporting someone else who is grieving, these tools and this information may help.Coping with Suicide Loss is Complicated There is no right or wrong way to feel or act. Practice self-compassion and try not to judge your own grief journey.COMMON QUESTIONSThree common questions you may be wondering or others may be asking you.IS IT OKAY TO TALK ABOUT THE DETAILS?Knowing the answers to questions like “was there a suicide note?” and “how did they do it?” might feel like it will bring closure/comfort during this really difficult time. We caution, however, that this information can be distressing, especially to people who have previously attempted suicide or are experiencing their own ideation. We do not recommend discussing these details; and, if they are being spoken about, share your knowledge that discussing details can increase risk. IS THIS MY FAULT?Guilt often plays a unique and intense role in the grief process for someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, as opposed to someone who is grieving a loss from more natural causes. This can stem from feelings of responsibility, regret, or the belief that they could have done something to prevent the tragedy. While suicide can be prevented in some cases, it’s important to remember that the reason someone ends their life is a culmination of many factors and/or events—not the result of your actions or perceived inactions.WHY DID THEY DO THIS?Many survivors of suicide want to know why their loved one chose to end their life. The answer is complex and mental health issues are almost always a part of the equation, whether the person was being treated for them, or not. These mental health struggles can distort one’s perception of reality, making people believe that their situation is hopeless and that no one can help them, reinforcing their desire to end the pain, rather than a clear desire to end their life.•Confusion•Shame•Anxiety•Relief •Sadness•Rejection•Isolation•IrritabilityHELPFUL WAYSTO COPE WITHSUICIDE LOSS
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTIONHealing Conversations: www.afsp.org/healing-conversationsHCCMontana@afsp.orgALLIANCE OF HOPEwww.allianceofhope.orgAn online community of suicide loss support, resources, and connections.988 SUICIDE AND CRISIS LIFELINEFree and confidential support 24/7 for people in distress, along with prevention and crisis resource advice provided by a trained volunteer in your state.GRIEF & LOSS SUPPORTNavigating Conversations Around Losing Someone to SuicideRESOURCESSCAN OUR QR CODEFor more information on finding a therapist, a calendar of supportive groups and NCF trainings, and other resources.Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can vary across populations, and risk and protective factors for suicide may also differ. Understanding specific variables that might apply to someone you are concerned about can be helpful in demonstrating understanding during difficult conversations. Preschool and KindergartenSTICK TO THE BASICSIf your child asks about someone who died by suicide, keep it simple. Acknowledge that the person died because they were sick and acknowledge that it can be sad when people die.Ages 7-10GIVE SHORT, TRUE ANSWERSIt is still important that parents stress that death can be sad and the person died of an illness. You can name it “depression.” To avoid overwhelming them with too much information, wait for them to ask further questions and then answer those simply and honestly.Ages 11+BE CONCRETE By middle school, kids are beginning to experience complicated emotions and it is important that we ask clear questions about what they’ve heard. This way, you can judge where they are and meet them there. Have a conversation with them about the information in this brochure, such as the risks that come with a suicide loss and the importance of taking care of themselves. Be honest and stick to facts. You can utilize this opportunity to discuss if they’ve ever had thoughts of suicide or are concerned about a friend.TALK TO KIDSHOW TO SAFELYABOUT A SUICIDEWHO WE AREThe Nate Chute Foundation is a 501(c)(3)nonprofit organization that supports, educates, and empowers our communities to promote mental wellness and reduce suicide.WHAT WE DOWe provide training to schools, businesses and organizations.NATE CHUTE FOUNDATION406.730.2521www.natechutefoundation.orginfo@natechutefoundation.org @natechutefoundationSCAN HEREScan here for more information on what we do, how to donate, LEARN training, our calendar of events, how to find a local therapist, mental wellness information or additional resources.