Surviving Suicide Loss: Finding Hope in the Midst of Deep Pain

Nothing could hurt worse. The pain of suicide loss is indescribable, often leaving family and friends feeling as though the world has been shattered beyond repair. In those first days and months, survival itself can feel impossible. Yet even in the darkness…there is hope.

Psalm 34:18

The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.

God’s Word reminds us that He is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Healing does not come quickly or easily—it takes time, perseverance, and support. But through faith, community, and the tools of wise counseling, there is a way forward.

Rita A. Schulte, LPC, a suicide loss survivor and therapist, captures this reality in her book Surviving Suicide Loss: Making Your Way Beyond the Ruins. She understands the pain because she has walked through it herself. Combining her personal experience with a science-based therapy model that acknowledges the role of faith and human spirituality, Schulte provides a gentle but practical guide for those navigating this devastating loss.

Her chapters address difficult but necessary topics such as:

• Making Sense of the Desire to Die

• The Mind-Body Connection

• Unfinished Business

• Making Peace with Ourselves

• Facing the Dark Side

• Children—Living Behind the Shadow

• The Time that Remains

Healing is possible- body, mind, and spirit.

When it comes to suicide loss, you may never have all the answers. But one thing is certain: you do not have to walk the road alone. With Christ, with the support of others, and with resources like Schulte’s book, healing is possible—body, mind, and spirit.

If you or someone you love is grieving a suicide loss, we gently recommend Surviving Suicide Loss by Rita A. Schulte as a source of guidance and encouragement.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

Our licensed, clinical counselors are committed Christians with a biblical worldview and are happy to meet with you at our offices in Amherst, OH. Please feel free to contact us to schedule an appointment using the link below.

This content has been created with the assistance of an AI language model and is intended to provide general information. While the content has been reviewed by a staff member, it may not always reflect the latest developments or expert opinions. The content should not be considered as professional or personalized advice. We encourage you to seek professional guidance, preferably from one of our licensed counselors to verify the information independently before making decisions based on this content.  The Word of God is always true.  While we strive for accuracy in our posts, we are not infallible.