BENS Hope | Support Groups

Survivors of Suicide (SOS) Support Group

WHEN: 2nd Tuesday of every month from 6:30-8:00pm (See Events Calendar for additional sessions)
WHERE: Mound City Bank Motor Branch, Platteville

After the devastating loss of our wonderful son, Benjamin, November 11, 2014; we have started a support group to help others who have been put in this unfortunate position. We invite those who have lost a loved one to suicide to come share their story. We realize it’s a courageous step as we have welcomed others who have lost someone 10, 20, or 30 years ago and who are still struggling with despair from their loss and also the unfortunate stigma others associate to suicide. We want to reassure these brave people that attend our SOS meetings that our group is not here to judge. It is our intent to share our stories, give hope, and find healing in our hearts as well as comfort and happiness sharing wonderful memories of those we’ve loved and lost that will remain forever in our hearts.

A Different Grief
A sudden death is a traumatic experience for survivors. A death by suicide adds a unique set of challenges for those who are left behind. Some reasons that a death by suicide may feel different than other losses you have experienced:

The methods of suicide are not “natural”

There always must be a discoverer who may be someone close or a stranger

Police and other authorities are involved

When suicide is ruled as the cause of death, the reasons may remain a mystery

There may be a final note or communication involved – the message, or lack of message, can raise questions for survivors

Religious conflicts may arise – your own beliefs or the beliefs of others

This support group is meant to help you understand what happens after suicide and to give you hope.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does A Support Group Look and Feel Like?

A support group is a safe place to share your thoughts, feelings and questions with warmth, empathy, listening and compassion in return.

What Do I Wear To A Support Group?

Whatever makes YOU comfortable. there are no labels or judgements.

Do I Have To Talk?

No – you only share when you want to and IF you want to. we are here to support you, not to probe or question you.

What If I Know Other People In The Group?

That’s ok. What is talked about in our groups stays in our groups. Remember: Because EVERYONE Needs Some Hope.

What If I Cry?

Tears are healing and filled with emotion. We have plenty of Kleenex.

Can I Show Up Late To The Group?

We all have busy lives. If you can’t quite make it on time, please still come and join us, just be respectful to the group as it is in progress.

Do I Have To Come To Every Support Group?

No – you can come when you need it. Remember we’re here for YOU.

What If I Am A Friend Of Someone Who Lost Someone To Suicide – Can I Come And Support Them?

Absolutely! The more support the better!

Are Support Groups “Counseling”?

No – they are there to support you in your time of need.

Can I Go To The Support Group If I Am Currently Seeing A Counselor?

Yes – many people put them together to process their grief.

How Long Do I Attend The Support Groups?

Grief is individual and personal for each person – only you will know how long you will need.

What Do People Say In These Groups?

Whatever emotion they are feeling, whatever they are going through at the time (sharing stories, asking questions, expression emotions).

Sounds Like A Lot of Crying Going On In These Support Groups.

We Laugh, we cry, we share, and most importantly we support.