In order to create a safe and welcoming space for all survivors of suicide loss, we adhere to the following guidelines during our time together:
We respect the commitment on each others’ time - we begin the meeting promptly at 6:30 PM and end at 8:00 PM.
Our meetings are open only to those who have lost someone to suicide (not to those who have survived a suicide attempt) and each suicide loss has equal value in the group.
You must be 18 or older to participate in a meeting.
All group discussions should be kept strictly confidential
We define and discuss the stages of the grieving process as they relate to suicide loss - shock and denial, fear and anger, guilt and shame, grief and sadness, and, eventually, acceptance and hope.
We encourage all group members to share openly, honestly, and from the heart. There is healing in talking about our feelings and comfort in knowing that we are not alone in our grief. But no one should feel pressured to participate - there is also healing in listening.
We provide a safe place to share our loss and are free to discuss our anger, fear, guilt, shame, embarrassment, disappointment, sadness, etc. in this meeting without fear of judgment, criticism, or condemnation.
We practice acceptance of others in this group.
We practice taking responsibility for ourselves by “staying in our own skin.” We speak in “I language” and use healthy boundaries in our discussion.
We ask that you respect the group by speaking one at a time and not interrupting another group member.
Share your experience, even if you were unhappy about how it turned out. It might help someone else avoid repeating your mistakes.
We practice respect for the beliefs and values of others.
Give yourself a chance. If the first meeting doesn't seem to help, please come back a few more times before deciding it's not for you.
We honor your tears with no judgement.
Adapted from guidelines developed by Linda L. Flatt, Surviving Suicide ~ 1996.