Assessing the Needs of Survivors of Suicide: a Needs Assessment in the Calgary Health Region (Region 3), Alberta

A needs assessment of those bereaved by the suicide of an immediate family member was conducted to provide direction in the development of a response plan for the Calgary Health Region. Participants described what was helpful & not helpful to them throughout the bereavement process immediately after the death & at a later time. Survivor needs in relation to both social & formal supports are identified & differences between male & female grief responses are discussed. Recommendations for service development & administration are provided. (52 refs)