Observing International Survivors of Suicide Day

If you have lost someone to suicide, it is important that you do not feel alone. Northstar Recovery Center is a leading outpatient drug rehab and mental health treatment center in Massachusetts. In observing International Survivors of Suicide Day, we would like to honor and support those who have been affected by suicide loss, including the family members, friends, and romantic partners of those who have died by suicide.

Observing International Survivors of Suicide Day

The purpose of observing International Survivors of Suicide Day is to give survivors of suicide loss a chance to come together and share connection, hope, and understanding. It also provides an opportunity to promote crucial resources about grief and healing for survivors of suicide loss. For example, peer support groups and published resources, including those geared toward kids and teens. 

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day occurs on the Saturday before American Thanksgiving each year. This is noteworthy, as the holidays can be a challenging time for suicide loss survivors. In 2025, people around the world will observe International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day on November 22nd. 

Mental Health in Suicide Loss Survivors

Suicide is no one’s fault. Most people who have died by suicide, or who have attempted, have a mental health condition or substance use disorder. In fact, 90 percent of all suicides are associated with a diagnosable mental health or substance use disorder. 

If you have lost someone close to you, your mental health matters. People who have lost someone else to suicide are at an increased risk of a variety of mental health concerns. These include major depression, complicated grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Talking about mental health in suicide loss survivors is imperative. No matter what you are going through as it relates to grief and loss, we can guarantee that you’re not the only one and that it makes sense. Community matters, and that is exactly why we’re here. 

Support at Northstar Recovery Center

We have multiple locations (one in West Springfield and the other in Southborough). Virtual treatment options are also available for those interested in getting support at Northstar Recovery Center, including fully online programs and hybrid scheduling. 

Loss & Grief Counseling

Grief is not a linear process. Survivors of suicide loss can face a wide range of emotions and experiences that affect their daily lives and functioning. All areas of your life, including your self-care, physical health, work, and interpersonal or familial relationships, can be impacted by grief. We provide loss and grief counseling in Massachusetts to help people navigate these experiences. 

PTSD Treatment

Losing someone to suicide is a traumatic event. Some develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after losing someone to suicide. The symptoms of PTSD may manifest differently from person to person. We provide PTSD treatment in Massachusetts for those who have been affected by traumatic events, such as the loss of a loved one.

Trauma Therapy 

Finding trauma-informed care can make a major difference in your experiences with therapy. As a trauma-informed treatment center, we are proud to offer trauma therapy in Massachusetts. Types of treatment for trauma can include, but aren’t limited to, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization and re-processing (EMDR) therapy, and other evidence-based treatments, such as dialectical behavioral therapy, used at our center. 

Northstar Family Support Groups 

In addition to providing treatment solutions for people who are seeking help for themselves, we are proud to offer Northstar family support groups. These support groups are open to the loved ones of our current and former clients.

Call Northstar Recovery Center to Find Support 

Northstar Recovery Center is dedicated to providing personable and caring treatment for people affected by mental health concerns and substance use disorders. Our in-person and virtual programs in Massachusetts are covered by most forms of insurance, which you can verify over the phone or online in a few minutes or less. Please call Northstar Recovery Center to find support for yourself or someone you care about today. You can reach our confidential, cost-free admissions line at (833) 853-8153. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day?

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day is a globally recognized day for the loved ones of those who have died by suicide to come together to find a sense of community and support. 

How did International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day start?

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day was started by Senator Harry Reid in 1999. After losing his father to suicide, Reid introduced a resolution to the United States Senate. This led to the creation of International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. 

How many people have lost someone to suicide? 

Based on data from October to November 2023, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that two in five adults in the United States personally knew someone who died by suicide. That is 42.4 percent of the adult US population.

Are there events for International Survivors of Suicide Day?

Yes. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) sponsors events around the world for International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. This includes online and in-person events for survivors of suicide loss. There is a chapter in Massachusetts with multiple events available for November 2025. You can search for an event near you here: https://isosld.afsp.org. 

What are some other ways to observe International Survivors of Suicide Day?

Anyone can get involved in International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. In addition to events for those affected by suicide loss, volunteering, advocating for suicide prevention, learning the facts, and spreading awareness are some ways you can get involved in observing International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day. 

How do you take care of yourself as a survivor of suicide loss?

If you know someone who has died by suicide, it is important that you use self-care. Finding community and seeking support, including professional support, can be crucial.