Suicide
What if I feel responsible?
Short answer
This feeling is nearly universal among suicide loss survivors. It is not an accurate reflection of your responsibility. Suicide is the result of complex factors — mental illness, pain, neurological conditions — that were not in your control. Grief counseling with someone…
What this usually means
This feeling is nearly universal among suicide loss survivors. It is not an accurate reflection of your responsibility. Suicide is the result of complex factors — mental illness, pain, neurological conditions — that were not in your control. Grief counseling with someone experienced in suicide loss is strongly recommended.
What to do next
- Start the PathAfter checklist for situation-aware first steps.
- Find California county help for coroner contacts, vital records, cost tools, and paperwork.
- Open the First 72 Hours Call Log before making calls.
- Open the Documents to Find Checklist when you are ready for paperwork.