Navigating Grief after Loss by Suicide
When grappling with the loss of a loved one, it can be difficult to know where to turn to for support. As suicide continues to impact lives in our AANHPI community, spaces for gathering and mental health support are vital. Anyone is welcome to join Little Tokyo Service Center’s upcoming support group drop-in sessions to share feelings, give and get support, and find comfort.
When a community experiences a loss by suicide, it affects everyone -- especially young people who may be struggling to understand and process their grief. Clinical evidence shows that family and community support is one of the strongest protective factors during this vulnerable time. Here are recommendations for parents, caregivers, and community members as they support youth and young adults who have been impacted:
Supporting Those Who Are Grieving:
Validate all emotions -- Sadness, anger, confusion, and guilt are all normal responses to this type of loss
Don't avoid the topic -- While it's natural to want to protect young people from pain, avoiding discussion about suicide can actually increase confusion and undermine trust
Have direct conversations -- Use honest, age-appropriate language about what happened
Check in regularly -- Monitor for changes in behavior, sleep, or mood over the coming weeks and months. Oftentimes when you ask youth “How are you doing?” the response is just “fine,” but you never know when the check in is needed more than usual
Seek professional help when needed -- If you notice persistent changes or concerning statements about death or dying – the CT Stream program is a resource to you
Additional Resources:
California Youth Crisis Line: https://calyouth.org/cycl/ -- 24/7 support specifically designed for young people
Eluna Network -- Grieving a Suicide Death -- resources written specifically for adolescents and young adults
HelpGuide -- Coping with a Loved One's Suicide -- general guidance for all ages
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline -- Call or text 988 for immediate support
Little Tokyo Service Center offers specialized support for individuals who have lost someone to suicide. Our Survivor After Suicide Loss Support program creates a safe, compassionate space where you can honor your thoughts, feelings, and emotions about your loss alongside others who truly understand your journey. Find out more here.
Remember: Healing takes time, and everyone grieves differently. Professional support is available and can be invaluable during this difficult period.
