A SUPPORT group for people who have lost loved ones to suicide will start meeting in Bathurst early next month.
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Dr Suzanne Alder, a psychologist working with Busby Medical Practice will be hosting the support group.
The Bathurst Suicide Support Group will meet in The Cottage at 202 Howick Street opposite the practice from noon this Thursday, September 2.
The group will be run by participants not professionals, however Dr Alder will always be nearby if anyone needs to speak with her.
Initially she will guide participants through their first group experiences and start the discussion.
Dr Alder said suicide is a very real problem in Bathurst and the surrounding region.
She said she decided to start the support group because she had seen a couple of survivors of suicide and thought it would be valuable to give them an opportunity to speak to each other.
One of them had tried to locate a support group but was unable to find one any closer than Penrith.
“As well as the impact of losing someone you love, there is always that terrible question of why,” Dr Alder said.
“There is also guilt and a bit of stigma.”
She said a support group helps those left behind realise others have shared the same experience and feelings.
“It’s one thing hearing information from a psychologist or doctor but to have someone share their own experiences is different,” Dr Alder said.
“Some of them will be at different stages of the process and that provides perspective.
“Nothing can reduce the horror of it, but it is better to be able to speak about it,” Dr Alder said.
There will be a $5 charge to cover tea and
coffee. Anyone who would like to take part in the group can contact Busby Medical Practice on 6332 4266.
