Recommendations for research on suicide loss: A commentary

Abstract

As detailed in the lead article in this Special Issue, the Survivors of Suicide Loss Task Force of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention in the United States has recently worked to formulate national guidelines to mitigate the harmful aftereffects of suicide in social and family systems. In the present article, we elaborate on one of four strategic directions addressed by the Task Force, namely, the development of goals and objectives for surveillance, research and evaluation of the impact of suicide loss. By emphasizing methodological guidelines for the conduct of future studies and illustrating progressive programs of investigation as leading exemplars, we hope to contribute to the sophistication of research on public health initiatives, peer support and professional intervention with communities, families and individuals affected by suicide loss.