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How Can I Help Her Deal With a Suicide?
I'm concerned about my 13-year-old niece. Her mother committed suicide, and she is blaming herself. How can I help her to deal with her mother's death?
- Lola
Talking with your niece and encouraging her to share her feelings with you can be a big help. Explain that, unfortunately, every year - like her mom - many people do commit suicide, and it's not the fault of other people. It's natural to feel guilty and to wonder if there's anything that could have been said or done to prevent it. But her mother's suicide wasn't the result of anything your niece did. It's also natural to feel some anger at what happened - and even some embarrassment. Dealing with a parent's death is terribly difficult for anyone. Your niece needs your understanding and support. If possible, she should talk with a mental health professional, such as a psychologist who is experienced at working with teens.
For more information, check out this article.
Neil Izenberg, MD
Date reviewed: January 2004
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