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For Suicide Attempt Survivors

Information on this page is for suicide attempt survivors. Suicide attempt survivors are people who have survived an intentional act of self-harm with the intent to end their lives.

Challenges attempt survivors face

Surviving a suicide attempt can be a traumatic experience with emotional, physical, and psychological consequences. Survivors may face a complex mix of feelings such as shame, guilt, relief, and confusion, and they often require support to heal and cope. There are several common challenges an attempt survivor may face:

  1. Stigma and shame: Many survivors feel stigmatized and isolated due to societal attitudes toward suicide.
  2. Emotional distress: Guilt, hopelessness, and confusion are common, and many survivors struggle with underlying mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
  3. Physical recovery: Depending on the method, survivors may need significant medical care.
  4. Ongoing risk: There may still be a heightened risk of future suicide attempts, especially without proper intervention and support.

Resources for suicide attempt survivors

There are specific resources to support people who have attempted suicide and loved ones supporting someone experiencing suicidal ideation and behaviors.

For attempt survivors

  • Live Through This
    This is a collection of portraits and true stories of suicide attempt survivors across the United States.
  • Lived Experience Academy
    This educational website is designed to help suicide attempt survivors after they have gotten through a suicidal crisis, and to support their journey toward a new life.
  • A Journey Toward Health and Hope: Your Handbook
    for Recovery After a Suicide Attempt (PDF)
    This resource guides people through the first steps toward recovery and a hopeful future after a suicide attempt. It includes personal stories from survivors and strategies for recovery, such as re-establishing connections and finding a counselor.

For those supporting attempt survivors

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