Suicide bereavement and coping: a descriptive and interpretative analysis of the coping process

Abstract

A qualitative approach to research was used to explore coping in the aftermath of bereavement by suicide. Ten participants completed a semi-structured qualitative questionnaire, reporting on individual coping and perceptions of effective coping during the bereavement. Responses were analysed using descriptive and interpretative thematic analysis (Elliott & Timulak, 2005). Key themes found include: initial experience of ‘shocked detachment’, helpfulness of receiving support, aiming to maintain a normal, familiar routine, balancing emotional expression and regulation, and coming to terms with the reality of the loss. All participants reported changes in general coping abilities following the loss.