Many people may have already been navigating mental health challenges before their loved one’s homicide. A traumatic loss can intensify symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Notice Changes: Pay attention if symptoms worsen—like increased isolation, difficulty sleeping, or heightened panic.
- Prioritize Mental Health: This is not a sign of weakness; it’s a normal response to an overwhelming event.
- Reach Out for Support: If possible, connect with a mental health professional or a trusted person. Even small steps—like sending a text or scheduling a brief check-in—can help.
- Continue or Begin Care: If you were already receiving treatment, keep those supports if you can. If not, consider whether starting treatment might help during this acute phase.
Your mental health matters. Caring for it is an act of survival and self-preservation.
Emergent Help
If you are experiencing severe depression with no energy and thoughts of harming yourself, it can be a symptom of extreme trauma. Your most important priority is to seek immediate help.
Acknowledge your feelings. The pain you are experiencing can feel overwhelming, and thoughts of ending that pain may arise. This can be a symptom of severe depression and trauma.
If you are feeling unsafe or having thoughts of harming yourself, the most important step is to reach out for support.
- Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US/Canada).
- Text “HOME” to 741741 (Crisis Text) Line).
Take the First Step: If you are considering self-harm, focus on taking just one step towards getting help, i.e., telling a safe person immediately or calling 988. You don’t have to figure it out alone.