Lotte’s Experience
What phrase do you use most often to describe how your loved one died?
Took his own life. Died by suicide.
2. Did you struggle with that language?
Not the ones I’ve added but if someone uses ‘committed’ that can be triggering for me personally.
3. How do you find having conversations about the person you’ve lost?
Cathartic mostly, I enjoy hearing stories I’ve not heard before. I am very at peace with talking about him, as a family we hope that sharing his story encourages other people to reach out and get the help they deserve and require.
4. How do you find having conversations about your grief and what you’re going through?
I find conversations about grief very important. Speaking to someone you trust can be extremely helpful when going through grief. Having someone to talk to with lived experience is also helpful. I am very open about my experience with grief because I’d like my experience to be a message for others and help and encourage them to reach out when in grief.
5. What do you think could make these conversations easier?
Authenticity.
6. Do you have tips for others in this situation?
Please please please reach out and speak out, there is always someone that can support you. There are amazing services that can support through grief. Hold you in a safe space to allow you to process the grief safely.