September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, an opportunity to shed light on a topic that has affected many of us in a devastating way. Every year, thousands of people die by suicide, leaving behind friends and family members to navigate a tragic loss.
At Krause Funeral Homes & Cremation Services, our caring team knows this loss both personally and professionally, as we walk alongside those who are suffering the heartbreak following a death by suicide.
It is our hope that through sharing stories and resources, we can make it clear to our neighbors and friends that you are not alone.
If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call 911 immediately.
If you are in crisis or are experiencing difficult or suicidal thoughts, call the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273 TALK (8255). Counselors are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential. If you’re uncomfortable talking on the phone, text NAMI to 741-741 to be connected to a free, trained crisis counselor.
As suicide rates continue to climb, more and more Milwaukee families are left to face the reality of their beloved child, sibling, cousin, friend taking their own life. Here at Krause Funeral Homes, we meet with those who are heartbroken and struggling with a multitude of “what ifs” following a suicide.
What if I could’ve done something or said something to prevent this?
What if I had done a better job of being there and staying in contact?
What if there were warning signs I overlooked or completely missed?
The pain and grief of losing a loved one to suicide is unfathomable. It is our hope that you will consider our staff a means of support. Our website offers many resources to help on the road to healing, including Interactive Grief Support and other resources for the grief journey.
Although the feelings of emptiness and devastation will always be there to some extent, we do want to provide steps to continue on the healing process, particularly for those whose loved one has taken their own life:
- Remember that everyone grieves in their own way. Some isolate, refusing to respond to texts and phone calls. Others never want to be alone, finding solace in the presence of friends and family. Young people in particular don’t want to be viewed as an additional “burden” and may try to appear as if they’re coping alright – when this is far from the truth.
- Understand that feelings of guilt are normal. It’s also important to understand that you may never get the answers you’re looking for.
- Seek out support. Too often, friends don’t know what to say and may end up saying nothing at all. Sadly, the parent often needs to reach out for the encouragement they need. Professional counseling and support groups are a good place to start. We can connect you with aftercare resources in Milwaukee, so contact us anytime for help.
During this difficult time, remember that we are available 24/7 if you need support or a listening ear. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are always here for our Milwaukee community.