Coping with suicide bereavement: A focus-group study of adaptation processes over time

This qualitative study explored the coping resources mobilized by individuals bereaved by suicide and examined how these processes evolve over time. Twenty-one participants, bereaved for at least 14 months, took part in five semi-structured focus groups. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, allowing the identification of key themes and temporal dynamics. Two major phases emerged from participants' narratives. Initially, participants relied on survival strategies and sought meaning through routines, social support, and information-seeking. Over time, participants reported engaging in deeper restructuring processes: reorganizing their daily lives, redefining their identity, and reshaping the bonds with the deceased. Emotionally salient moments-such as anniversaries-were described as both challenging and potentially meaningful. The findings highlight the complexity and non-linearity of suicide grief, with multidimensional processes unfolding over time. These findings offer valuable insights into the lived experiences of people bereaved by suicide and suggest the need for flexible, tailored clinical support.