RAISR4D Suicide

Long-term suicide bereavement among immediate and extended family members: Experiences 10-41 years post-loss

12/05/2026

AI Summary

Long-term suicide bereavement is under-researched, necessitating qualitative exploration of prolonged experiences.
Interviews with eight Chinese participants 10 to 41 years post-loss revealed two bereavement categories: positive recovery and grieving in the mist.
Findings show enduring effects on individual family members and family systems, highlighting need to identify vulnerable families and offer appropriate support.

Death Stud. 2026 May 12:1-9. doi: 10.1080/07481187.2026.2668352. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

Research on long-term suicide bereavement remains limited. Using semi-structured, in-depth interviews, this qualitative study explored the suicide bereavement experiences of eight participants in China 10-41 years post-loss. Data were analyzed using assimilation analysis. Two bereavement categories-positive recovery and grieving in the mist-and their underlying features were identified, along with the enduring impact of suicide on both individual family members and the family as a system. These findings provide new insights into long-term suicide bereavement and may help identify vulnerable individuals and families to facilitate appropriate support.

PMID:42118824 | DOI:10.1080/07481187.2026.2668352

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