What's normal for me to feel? (Trigger warning: mentions suicide)

[12345678X]

One of my children has recently attempted suicide for the second time.

I'm just wondering what kind of effect I can expect this to have on my family dealing with it.

Personally I feel extremely tired, and completely lacking in motivation to do anything. I don't want to communicate with anyone. I don't have any emotional energy left. Basically I want to hide in the corner and shut the world out.

Is this normal?

If you have experienced it how did it affect you?

Thank you 💐

Bump.

I'm so sorry this has happened in your family. Your reaction sounds completely normal to me.

Sending hugs x

Yes it’s normal. I slept (napped, went to bed early) for months and months after my husband died by suicide.

Anything you feel is normal by the way. Families who experience suicide often have a deep rooted perception that certain feelings are scary, not tolerable or not acceptable. But feelings - the full range of feelings - are life. They give you important information about your preferences and how to keep yourself safe. Let yourself feel what you feel.

Also notice that all the things you’ve described are the physical effects of shutdown, shock, or the freeze state - tiredness, lack of motivation, no energy, wanting to shut the world out. All very understandable symptoms of a trauma that’s too much for you to handle at the moment.

When the shock begins to wear off, you might begin to feel the fight/flight effects of trauma - feeling angry or wanting to run away. All normal.

When you feel up to it, have a read about polyvagal theory and emotional neglect.

In the meantime just let yourself rest as much as you can. Talk to trusted people who are okay with your full range of feelings if you can. Therapy is ideal. Feel free to PM.

Thank you so much ❤️

No advice just wanted to offer a handhold

Thank you 💐