History of early loss among a group of suicide survivors

Suicide-bereaved families have been described as more depression-prone and their bereavement process as more complicated and difficult. Few studies have aimed specifically to investigate the history of transgenerational childhood loss in suicide survivor families as an indicator of greater vulnerability. Childhood separation experiences are associated with difficulties in forming and maintaining attachments. Bonding difficulties are also associated with greater vulnerability to depression and may constitute a suicide risk factor. This exploratory study (n = 32) focused on two groups, each of 16 mothers who had lost a son to suicide and car accidents, respectively. History of loss and early separation experiences were investigated through a clinical interview of the bereaved mothers and through a psychological autopsy of the deceased sons. Results indicate significant transgenerational indices of loss, separation, and inadequate child-rearing. Pre-death life events and adversities in the family may be as important to bereavement outcome as post-death happenings. The cycle of these events, the role of fathers and the role of protective factors must be further studied using detailed life-course reconstructions.