Starting on April 11, 2023, Schareen, Associate Addictions Counsellor, and Amelia, Practicum Intern, will be running a support group for suicide attempt survivors for 8 weeks every Tuesday at 2pm. The goal of this group is to give you a safe space to talk surrounded by others who are understanding and ready to walk alongside you on your journey. Amelia and Schareen are here to explain more about their roles and what to expect from this group below!

Amelia On the “Why” Behind This Group

Hey everyone, Amelia here to chat about our upcoming group for suicide attempt survivors!

Basically, we are looking to have a group for people who have survived suicide attempt(s) and who want to have a safe, non-judgmental space to discuss their experiences. My role as the lived experiences coordinator means I have had suicide attempts in the past and have first-hand experience with the topic.

Having the space to discuss a heavy topic is so needed. It can be hard to talk about when something carries a lot of stigmas. When I started self-harming and had my initial suicide attempts at age 13, I didn’t know where to go or who to talk to. I found it very isolating because my friends were either completely suicidal like I was or were scared to talk about suicide and self-harm. My parents were also scared.

Like anything that carries shame, keeping it a secret is like a black hole that sucks all the possible support and love that could come from discussing it. Suicide can be scary: it means something is so wrong that you don’t want to live anymore. But it is even scarier being alone in it. If you or someone you know has had a suicide attempt and wants support, please share this group, as they do not have to be alone.

Schareen On the Process of Joining This Group

Hi everyone, Amelia already provided such a beautiful run down for the group that I’m just gonna give you a little more information about the vibes you can expect from the group.

Step 1: The Intake Process

The intake process is the first step. This involves you reaching out to info@dochaspsych.com, to let us know you are interested in more information, or in joining the group. From there your email gets sent to myself and Amelia, and we either respond to your questions via email to give you some more information, or to set up a time to call/meet and talk with you more.

Step 2: Intake Interview

This first meeting, phone/video call, allows you to get to know us, and more importantly allows us to get to know you and your story better. We discuss what to expect with the group, what kind

of support you may need to make this experience successful for you, if a group setting is the best fit for you at this time, and what you are hoping to get out of this experience.

Step 3: Accepting Group Invitation

Once we have completed the intake interview, and made sure that this is the type of group you are looking for, we send you an invitation to participate in the group. This invitation will include your informed consent and the weekly topic outlines. This way you can feel prepared by having an idea of what to expect each week.

Still not sure about this? That’s okay! First day jitters are a thing, especially with a topic like this one. So, luckily on the first day we take some time to allow everyone to get to know each other, and to discuss how we can all create an emotionally safe space for everyone. The do’s and don’ts of discussing our “suicidalness” if you will!. So hopefully, by the end of the first day you can feel secure in knowing that this will be a safe space for you and that we are all here because we are not only in the same boat, but because none of us want it to sink!

If you still have questions please feel free to reach out and ask. There is nothing off limits, and we won’t think you’re crazy for having these thoughts…(honestly, we have all been there!). You can email us at info@dochaspsych.com any time.

About Dóchas Psychological

Dóchas Psychological Services is a well-established and trusted therapy clinic located in Spruce Grove, Alberta. At Dóchas we value the idea that everyone deserves a safe space. Through connection and education, our team works hard to build a trustworthy relationship with each of our clients. It is our goal to create a community for our clients to feel like they belong.

Disclaimer

Information provided through Dóchas Psychological Services blogs or vlogs is meant for educational purposes only. They are NOT medical or mental health advice. You can read more about our disclaimer here.