Suicides have increased in the United States over the past 5 years and is one of the most difficult and unfortunate events that a family will go through. Suicide is often unexpected and may leave the surviving family members and friend feeling stunned, dull, and even angry. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) WISQARS Leading Causes of Death Reports, in 2019:
- Suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States, claiming the lives of over 47,500 people.
- Suicide was the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34, and the fourth leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 35 and 44.
- There were nearly two and a half times as many suicides (47,511) in the United States as there were homicides (19,141).
Speaking with a group of Funeral Directors at the International Cemetery, Cremation & Funeral Association in March of 2022 we asked the questions around prevention and grief counseling when it comes to the traumatic situation. When faced with suicide, many individuals seek professional help from therapist, grieving counselors, or online therapy like Cerebral. These trained professionals can help individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts process these thoughts.
“Unfortunately, these programs don’t always help and individual may take their life. It is very sad and far to common these days.” Ron, Funeral Director based in Houston explains “When these unfortunate events happen Funeral Directors like myself and many others here at ICCFA are there to help the families grieve and heal.” Funeral Directors often get asked by the family “What are the next steps on cleaning the house, fixing the house, and at times selling the house.” Valor works directly with Funeral Directors and families to provide the entire after death cleanup, reconstructions services, and has assisted families with selling their homes. When it comes to reconstruction, we have a team of contractors that will work with the family to pick out the new carpet, paint, etc. to help make their house a home again. We offer resources through Funeral programs like Heartlight in Denver, CO to help the family with the next steps in their healing process.
When a suicide occurs and a family is planning a funeral, they reach out to funeral directors for next steps and grief counseling. Almost all funeral directors go through training to help support these families during their hardest times. They provide guidance, counseling, programs, and additional resources around suicide and after death counseling. “Every suicide death is a sensitive and unique situation,” Brian, Funeral Director Portland Area explains. “Families all mourn and grieve differently; it is our job to support them and provide the family with resources like grief counseling to suicide clean up.”
Valor Technical Cleaning is an after death, crime scene, suicide, blood and biohazard cleaning company with a passion for service and a willingness to give back to our communities. Our team of OSHA-compliant, GBAC certified professional cleaners approaches every job with care and professionalism, always focusing on the well-being and safety of our clients.
If you’re in need of after death or suicide cleanup services, our trained and compassionate team is on hand 24/7/365 to assist you. Please call 855-476-4911 for free consultation regarding our services.
Photo by Mayron Oliveira on Unsplash
