The death of a parent is difficult, but it’s even more painful when the death is the result of suicide. Most survivors of suicide are left with numerous unanswered questions. As a result, grief is much more complex.

Moving forward will take time as you struggle with trying to understand "why" or until you become comfortable with never knowing why. You may feel overwhelmed and surprised by the intensity of your emotions and feelings. Just keep in mind that all of your feelings are real. Feelings such as guilt, anger, confusion, and forgetfulness are all common and are part of the mourning process. Look for ways to express your grief as everyone grieves differently. You may want to yell, cry, and laugh as you learn to live with what has happened.

Because many people are learning to live with the fact that someone they know committed suicide, several Web sites have been developed to provide more in-depth answers to questions about suicide. Web sites that might be helpful include:
--Survivors of Suicide: http://www.survivorsofsuicide.com
--AARP Grief and Loss: http://www.aarp.org/families/grief_loss
--American Hospice Foundation: http://www.americanhospice.org

You may also find additional information on grief and loss at: http://www.extension.org/pages/Loss_and_Grief.