GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — For those mourning the loss of a loved one to suicide, the pain can often feel isolating and overwhelming. But a West Michigan group is offering a lifeline for survivors, providing a safe space for those grieving to come together and share their experiences.
West Michigan Survivors of Suicide Loss, a support group that meets monthly in Grand Rapids, serves as a beacon for individuals navigating the complex emotions that follow such a tragic loss. The group gathers every second Thursday of the month at Park Congregational Church, welcoming anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one by suicide, whether it happened recently or years ago.
Scott Dykstra and Rebecca Olson, both members of the group, stress the importance of having a dedicated place to grieve and find support from others who understand the unique pain of losing someone to suicide. According to Olson, many people return to work and daily life far too soon after a loss, expected to move on after just a few days of bereavement.
“After dealing with a tremendously traumatic loss, you can’t just package that up and come back as business as usual in three to five days,” Olson explained. “It is very helpful to talk with others who understand, particularly if they’ve had the same type of loss by suicide.”
The group offers more than just a place to talk. Each meeting begins with a check-in to see how participants are doing, followed by open conversation and encouragement to prioritize self-care. This structure allows participants to process their grief at their own pace and gain strength from one another’s shared experiences.
Dykstra shared how the group has had a life-saving impact, citing a participant who was able to work through her anger and feelings of isolation after joining the group. “It helped her get past the anger and see that she wasn’t alone, and other people were experiencing the same feelings,” he said.
For many, the support provided by the group is not just about talking through grief, but also forming lasting connections. Some participants have developed close friendships with others they met in the group, finding comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their sorrow.
“You’re not alone,” Dykstra said. “There’s support, and we’re a safe space to open up. You don’t have to say anything, just be there and know that people care about you.”
West Michigan Survivors of Suicide Loss offers a crucial service to the community, providing a compassionate space for people to process one of life’s most painful experiences. The group’s emphasis on mutual support and understanding highlights the importance of community in healing, offering hope for those struggling in silence.
For more information about the group, or if you or someone you know could benefit from their services, visit the West Michigan Survivors of Suicide Loss website.
