PS28 - Impacts of Suicide Bereavement

Spirituality During Suicide Bereavement
August, 30 | 08:30 - 10:00

Background: Spirituality can be an important part of human life and life experiences, such as a loved one‘s death. When the death is due to suicide, it can rase even more spirituality-related questions. Surely, the field of psychology can only attempt to define spirituality in some way without delving into theological meanings. For this presentation, we defined spirituality, based on K. I. Pargament, as the search for the sacred. Methods: During our four years of research, we examined spirituality during suicide bereavement theoretically, by exploring scholarly databases, and empirically by conducting a phenomenological study of the grief experiences of 11 women who lost their life partners to suicide. Results: Our findings reveal that the suicide of a loved one can trigger not only a psychological but also a spiritual crisis. Strong life shocks force contemplation about the transience of life and the many things that are beyond our control or choice. At times, disillusionment with previous beliefs or anger towards God or fate can arise. This can lead to losing faith in values, human goodness, or the world. Spirituality after a loved one‘s suicide can also aid in the grieving process. Our research revealed a variety of helpful methods, such as spiritual practices, rituals, attitudes, values, and discussions about spiritual matters with others. These can help alleviate the pain of grief and seek individual explanations for why the mourner had to experience what they did, thus giving meaning to their loss. After a loved one‘s suicide, when life may seem frozen and devoid of meaning for months or even years, post-traumatic growth is possible. Part of this can be spiritual growth. It involves heightened, newly discovered spirituality and faith, a stronger sense of responsibility for others and empathy, improved relationships with others, oneself, and a higher power. Conclusion: Spirituality can be a highly significant aspect of grieving after a loved one‘s suicide. The role of spirituality during suicide bereavement can vary from source of helpful experiences and methods to difficult experiences.

Speakers