how can i cope with a friend's suicide?

Question

Back in January, a good friend of mine committed suicide. It was a total shock, because he was a great person who was very outgoing and had a lot going for him. I haven't dealt with death much outside of grandparents who died when I was younger, and needless to say, I have had a hard time dealing with it. 

The night before he died, I had a dream with him in it and woke up in fear, like something bad was about to happen to him. I almost texted him at 11:30 that night (when I woke up) to say what I was feeling, but didn't. And I hadn't seen him in roughly six months. By the time I remembered about it the next day, he'd committed suicide. 

I have been pretty depressed since then. I know that there was nothing I could do, but the dream and feeling after it still haunt me. I have had a rough year in college even before my friend's suicide, almost getting addicted to painkillers and being depressed before it happened, and having suicidal thoughts myself. His death just made it all worse. I am now down to my last couple weeks of school with no energy whatsoever.

How can I cope? I've talked to friends and family about it, but it doesn't seem to be doing much good. Like I said before, I am not used to dealing with death. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Phila Bueno · Accepted Answer

You should talk to a therapist and talk about your feelings about it. I feel really bad for you but you just have to be brave.

Roza · Answer

First of all im truly sorry for ur loss.
Okay well lets start with this: breathe,deep breathe
Close ur eyes and just imagine yourself the day when u had the dream
Now make a txt as if ur friend was still alive
In the txt write everything u wanted to tell him everything!
Send it 
Breathe again
the next part is long term
Each time u feel lost or having bad thoughts write exactly what you are feeling in a journal 
Keep the journal with you always 
What you truly need is an outlet and a journal will help even if you think at first its meaning less it will help you

? · Answer

Also sorry to hear about this death - as with others who have responded, I have had some experience with the suicide of one friend and one student. Even under the very best of circumstances, it is still impossible to prevent someone from taking their own life all of the time. For those friends and family members who are shocked and hurting from this death, it's important to keep in touch and keep talking - personal and maybe professional assistance may be needed. Their are numerous "grief support" groups in various locations - possibly very nearby - that can provide necessary help and advice. Good luck!

Anonymous · Answer

I'm very sorry for your loss. This is an absolutely normal reaction. I would recommend that you talk to a therapist. Although talking to friends and family is very important, they don't have professional experience.

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how can i cope with a friend's suicide?

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