In my thesis, I focused my research on family dynamics after the suicide of a family member. My research aimed to gain an understanding of how the event of suicide affects the rest of the family, what changes occur in family relationships, roles and communication, and what provides families with the most support in difficult times after loss. In a theoretical introduction, I introduce suicide, its prevention, write about stigma and the importance of awareness-raising. I also describe the changes in family dynamics, and then go on to describe the grieving process, the psychological and emotional aspects, sources of help and the role of social work in providing holistic support to families after suicide. The research is qualitative in nature, within which I conducted eight interviews with family members who have experienced loss due to suicide in the family, using interview guidelines. I asked myself seven research questions which I attempted to answer during the course of the research. My sample was non-randomised and purposive, and the interviewees were members of diverse families where at least two years had passed since the loss. With their help, I gathered data that showed that families often experience changes in family dynamics after a suicide, particularly in family relationships, roles and communication. Family members often experience emotional changes as a result of the loss, coping with feelings of guilt, fear, confusion, as well as ongoing social stigma. At the same time, honest and open communication, interconnectedness and grouping with people who have similar experiences of coping with suicide in the family have been shown to be important in helping people to process their loss. I also present suggestions on how to improve support for families after suicide and the importance of suicide prevention guidelines.
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