Holding Space for Healing: Honoring International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day

November 21 marks International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, a day set aside to acknowledge and support the friends and family members who have lost someone to suicide. It’s a reminder of the quiet, profound pain that these survivors carry and the resilience they show in the face of an indescribable grief.

In Checking In, I spoke openly about my own battles with mental health and how important it was for me to learn that vulnerability and strength coexist. But today, I want to shift the focus to those who have stood in the wake of unimaginable loss—those left to navigate the deep, complex emotions that follow the death of a loved one by suicide. These are the parents, siblings, partners, friends, and extended family members who are bound by shared silence, often afraid to share their stories or seek support for fear of stigma or misunderstanding.

The Weight of Grief and the Need for Community

Survivors of suicide loss face unique challenges. The grief they carry can be accompanied by questions that may never have answers and feelings of guilt or helplessness. This kind of loss isn't just about mourning; it often involves reconciling a mix of emotions, from deep sadness to anger, confusion, and a lingering "What if?"

It’s vital that we create spaces where these survivors can find support and understanding. Just as I learned the importance of checking in with myself and those around me, I hope we can all practice checking in on those who have experienced this type of loss. Asking, “How are you today?” and truly listening can be a powerful act of love.

Permission to Feel and Heal

In our society, people sometimes feel the pressure to “move on” from their grief quickly. But healing doesn’t follow a set timeline. International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is a gentle reminder that it’s okay to feel everything—from pain to hope, and all the shades in between. Grief doesn’t go away; it changes shape, and survivors deserve the space to experience that without judgment.

If you or someone you know has lost a loved one to suicide, know that your feelings are valid. There’s no “right” way to grieve, and you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Support groups, friends who understand, or even reading stories that resonate with your experience can remind you that you’re not alone in this journey.

Turning Pain into Compassion

What strikes me most is the resilience that emerges when people find their way through this kind of grief. Many survivors turn their pain into action, advocating for mental health awareness, supporting others in their community, or simply being there for a friend who needs to talk. It’s a testament to the human spirit—that even in the darkest moments, there is the potential for connection and compassion.

A Call to Support and Remember

As we recognize International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, let’s commit to holding space for those who have experienced loss. Let’s be willing to ask tough questions, sit with hard emotions, and show unwavering support. This day is about honoring those who have passed but also about uplifting those left behind, reminding them that they are seen and loved.

For anyone reading this who feels the weight of grief: you don’t need to rush through your pain or be “strong” every day. Strength is in acknowledging your reality and leaning into the support that surrounds you.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on this day, I’m reminded that the most impactful thing we can do is show up for each other. Whether that means being there for someone grieving or advocating for better mental health resources, every step counts. Let’s continue to create a world where no one feels isolated in their loss, and where healing—however it unfolds—is met with understanding and grace.

To all the survivors out there: your journey matters, and so do you. Let's honor that, not just today, but every day.

With Love,

Michelle

Disclaimer: I am not a licensed therapist or mental health professional. The experiences shared in this blog are personal and intended for informational purposes only. If you are struggling with mental health issues, please seek professional support from a licensed therapist, counselor, or mental health organization.