Summary

If Only. is a collection of deeply personal stories from people who have lost a family member or loved one through suicide. They tell of the tragic loss of children, partners, parents, and siblings, and relate the difficulties and struggles, experienced as well as the profound pain and despair that may be encountered in grief. All of the contributors write from the heart, motivated by a desire to show that it is possible to pull your life together after a suicide, that there is light at the end of the tunnel, that the pain does lessen in time, and that life can become meaningful and productive again. The stories enable those left behind to be seen as real people - mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters to the lost person; ordinary people who have experienced and suffered extraordinary loss. As well as offering hope and support for survivors of suicide, If Only. is a valuable resource for professionals working with the bereaved, as well as a means to broaden awareness in the wider community.