Life After Suicide: Finding Courage, Comfort & Community After Unthinkable Loss

Dr. Jennifer Ashton, chief medical correspondent for ABC News, has written a memoir about surviving the suicide of a loved one. She shares her personal experience and offers advice to help others find peace. The book is a call to action against the epidemic of suicide and a story of personal grief and loss. It includes stories from others who have survived and demonstrates the importance of conversation and community in recovering from such a tragedy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Inc

From the chief medical correspondent of ABC News, an eloquent, heartbreaking, yet hopeful memoir of surviving the suicide of a loved one, examining this dangerous epidemic and offering first-hand knowledge and advice to help family and friends find peace. Jennifer Ashton, M.D., has witnessed firsthand the impact of a loved one's suicide. When her ex-husband killed himself soon after their divorce, her world—and that of her children—was shattered. Though she held a very public position with one of the world's largest media companies, she was hesitant to speak about the personal trauma that she and her family experienced following his death. A woman who addresses the public regularly on intimate health topics, she was uncertain of revealing her devastating loss—the most painful thing she had ever experienced. But with the high-profile suicides of Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, Dr. Ashton recognized the importance of talking about her experience and the power of giving voice to her grief. She shared her story with her Good Morning America family on air—an honest, heartbreaking revelation that provided comfort and solace to others, like her and her family, who have been left behind.

In Life After Suicide, she opens up completely for the first time, hoping that her experience and words can inspire those faced with the unthinkable to persevere. Part memoir and part comforting guide that incorporates the latest insights from researchers and health professionals, Life After Suicide is both a call to arms against this dangerous, devastating epidemic, and an affecting story of personal grief and loss. In addition, Dr. Ashton includes stories from others who have survived the death of a loved one by their own hand, showing how they survived the unthinkable and demonstrating the power of hope and resilience.

The impact of suicide is far-reaching and can affect individuals, families, and communities in profound ways. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 34 in the United States, and it is the tenth leading cause of death overall. Suicide rates are highest among certain groups, including veterans, people living in rural areas, and those with mental health conditions.

One of the most challenging aspects of surviving the suicide of a loved one is the emotional pain and trauma that it can cause. Grief is a natural and normal response to loss, and it can take time and support to heal. However, survivors may also experience feelings of guilt, shame, and anger, which can make it difficult to cope with their emotions.

In addition to the emotional toll, suicide can also have financial implications for survivors. Funeral expenses, medical bills, and lost income can add up quickly, and survivors may struggle to cope with these financial burdens.

To help those who are struggling with the suicide of a loved one, it is important to provide support and resources. This can include therapy, support groups, and educational programs that provide information about suicide prevention and grief management.

It is also important to raise awareness about suicide and its impact on society. This can be done through public education campaigns, media coverage, and community events that promote mental health and well-being.

In conclusion, the suicide of a loved one is a devastating experience that can have a profound impact on individuals, families, and communities. It is important to provide support and resources to those who are struggling with this loss and to raise awareness about suicide prevention and grief management. By working together, we can help to reduce the impact of this dangerous epidemic and provide hope and healing to those who need it most.

Weight: 224g
Dimension: 134 x 201 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780062906045