The Last Taboo: Talking About Suicide Helps Survivors Make Sense of the Senseless and may Lift Social Stigmas, too

This manuscript discusses the stigmas associated with suicide. Several case studies of suicide bereavement are presented, including artist Carole Itter & author Moira Farr. Differences are noted between bereavement due to suicide & bereavement for other reasons. It is noted that messages of condolence are often not sent following a suicide & the cause of death is usually not mentioned in the funeral services or obituaries. The importance of discussing suicide is asserted. (7 refs)(SC)