Forced to move on: An interview study with survivors who have lost a relative to suicide.

Abstract

Purpose: To explore the loss of a relative due to suicide.

Design and methods: Ten survivors of relatives who had taken their lives were interviewed. Data was analyzed from a phenomenological perspective.

Findings: The survivors described how they witnessed the darkness that took over their relative's lifeworld. During the time before and after the suicide, the survivor felt barred from having a role in the relative's care.

Practice implications: Understanding and exploring implicit dynamics, such as "a feeling of darkness taking over," "a sense of relief," or "putting on a mask" could be important for developing person-centered suicide care.