Western Trust offering new resources for those 'Bereaved by Suicide'

by Gráinne Connolly

The Western Health and Social Care Trust has launched new resources to support those bereaved by suicide. 

Five local 'Bereaved by Suicide' support groups are available across the trust area. 

Supporting the launch of theses support group resources; Deborah Hunter, Health Improvement Officer for the Western Trust said: 

"Grief associated with bereavement by suicide is unique. 

"Many people who have bereaved in this way have sought and benefitted from attending a support group.

"Evidence shows that attending a bereaved by suicide support group is a powerful and constructive way for people to seek emotional support both for themselves and others." 

Deborah also explained that it helps those bereaved in this way to be around others who can relate to them: 

"The coming together of those similarly bereaved, regardless of when the death occurred, can provide the opportunity to be with other people who really understand and empathise with on another gaining strength, support and understanding from the individuals within the group. 

"It is believed that the formation of these support groups across the Western Trust area will go some way to help support people through what is a very distressing experience. 

"We would encourage anyone who has been affected by suicide to please come along to the meetings."

Suicide Support Group meetings are as follows: 

Derry/Londonderry - 

1st and 3rd Monday of every month from 7.30pm-9.00pm at Foyle Search and Rescue, Victoria Road 

Limavady –

2^nd Tuesday of every month from 7.30-9pm at the Wellness Centre, 101 A Irish Green Street

Enniskillen –

1^st Monday of every month from 7.30-9pm at the Aisling Centre, Enniskillen

Lisnaskea –

2^nd Monday of every month from 8-10pm at the Oak Healthy Living Centre

Omagh –

1^st Tuesday of every month from 8-10pm at the Tara Centre

Strabane –

Every Wednesday at 8pm in the Koram Centre