How to deal with PTSD after a suicide
Those who may have witnessed a suicide could suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Suicide is one of the most difficult scenarios to deal with, not only for the family directly affected but also for those who may have witnessed it or discovered the body.
Sights, smells and sounds associated with an area where a suicide has taken place could be overpowering to those who have witnessed it. These witnesses could suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Every person deals with trauma in their own way but if, after witnessing a suicide, you are experiencing any of the following you should seek professional help:
• Avoidance of the area where the suicide took place.
• Experiencing panic when approaching the area.
• Violent dreams.
• Flashbacks of the suicide. This includes smells and sounds.
• Distortion of time. You seem to be running late or early for important appointments.
• Sleeping difficulty.
• Isolation.
• Excessive alcohol intake.
• Spending more time alone.
• Distancing yourself emotionally.
• Lack of motivation.
• Sudden bursts of compulsion such as excessive cleaning.
To contact a counsellor from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group call 011 234 4837 between 8am and 8pm.
For a suicidal emergency contact 0800 567 567 or the 24-hour helpline: 0800 12 13 14.
• Information from www.theconnectprogram.org (Connect – Training Professionals and Communities in Suicide Prevention and Response) and www.sosmadison.com (Survivors of Suicide Loss Support Group).
