Post Suicide Debriefing Team


DID YOU KNOW?

Each year there may be as many as 100 suicides in Ottawa.  For each death that occurs a number of “survivors” are left behind.  A survivor is anyone who is affected by a suicide.

Often, survivors will experience a range of reactions to a suicide. The loss can affect their behaviour and their feelings as well as their physical health.

WHO IS AFFECTED?

Experience has shown that a group of individuals can, at times, be as profoundly affected by the loss as family members.

For example:

·     Members of a sports team

·     Co-workers

·     Staff members/clients of a helping agency

·     Members of a community association

·     Neighbours

HOW CAN THE POST- SUICIDE DEBRIEFING TEAM HELP?

The trained post-suicide debriefing team offers a group process for individuals who are not family members and who may not be served by existing programs. 

Talking helps, and this mobile team gives people a chance to do just that.

A number of community agencies offer support to family members who may need grief counseling   for more information, call Bereaved Families at 613 567-4278.

WHAT IS A DEBRIEFING?

A debriefing is a structured one to three-hour group session.  Ideally, it should occur within one week of the suicide.  The session offers a safe, confidential setting where the emphasis is on sharing thoughts, feelings and experiences.  Group members will learn about stress reactions and community resources.  They will also be reassured that their responses to the event are natural.

HOW DO I CONTACT THEM?

This service can be reached by calling the Canadian Mental Health Association, Ottawa Branch.

By Phone  (613) 737-7791

By Fax at (613) 737-7644 

By E-mail at cmhaoc@magma.ca.

WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP OTHERS AND MYSELF?

·     Arrange a debriefing session as soon as possible

·     Be aware of some of the reactions (feelings of shock, confusion, guilt, sleep difficulties, lack of appetite, headaches and isolation)

·     Talk about what happened

·     Know that your reactions are natural

·     Find out about other available resources

24-HOUR SUPPORT LINES

Distress Centre of Ottawa & Region

613 238-3311

Kids Help Phone 1 800-668-6868

The Canadian Mental Health Association, Ottawa Branch  coordinates the Post-Suicide Debriefing Team.