Survivors of Suicide Loss

What can I expect from SSP? Will I feel better?
One of the most common questions that comes up in SSP sessions is, “when will this pain go
away?” There’s no easy answer to that, and grief is rarely linear. We don’t approach this work as
trying to get you from “here to there.” We focus on being with you in your experience, not trying
to change how you feel.

That said, many participants have shared that SSP had a profound effect on their relationship to
their grief.

What kind of support does SSP offer?
We offer both individual and group support.
Individual support can be just you, or include a partner or family members. Group support offers
a different experience, where support comes not only from the facilitators, but from others in the
group.

We recommend starting with individual support, as it gives you dedicated, unhurried space to
focus on your own experience. Both individual and group sessions run weekly for 8 weeks.

What happens in an SSP support session?
Each session is a confidential space for you to talk about your loss in whatever way feels right
for you. There’s no pressure to share more than you’re comfortable with.

Your volunteer facilitators will introduce topics, listen, ask gentle questions, and help guide the
conversation if needed. The space is always shaped by what feels most important to you.

In individual sessions, the focus is entirely on you and your experience.

In group sessions, you’ll also hear from others who have experienced a similar loss. You’re free
to share, or simply listen, at your own pace.

Will I be matched with volunteers who have had a similar loss?
Often, but not always. When we make matches, we take a number of factors into account, and
similarity of loss or relationship is one of them.

How do I know if I’m ready for SSP?
Readiness looks different for everyone. Some people reach out very soon after their loss, while
others come to us years later.

If it feels too hard to talk about your loss right now, that’s completely okay. You’re still welcome
to reach out, and we can figure out together if SSP is the right choice for you now.

How do I get started?
The first step is to contact us. We’ll arrange an initial phone or video call where we can get to
know each other, answer any questions you may have, and understand what kind of support
might be most helpful.

From there, we’ll recommend either individual or group support, depending on your situation
and preferences. The timing of when support begins can vary, based on both availability and
what feels like the right starting point for you. We’ll talk this through together so you know what
to expect.

Where are sessions held?
Currently, all sessions are held via Zoom. In some cases, in-person support may be arranged
depending on circumstances and availability.

What if I’m struggling with suicidal thoughts myself?
It’s not uncommon for people bereaved by suicide to experience suicidal thoughts at times. SSP
is not designed to support people in crisis. If you need immediate help, please call 911 or call or text
9-8-8. You’re still welcome to contact SSP once things feel more stable.

How is this different from grief therapy?
Therapy is led by mental health professionals who bring clinical expertise and treatment
frameworks.

SSP is different. Our volunteers aren’t here to diagnose, treat, or fix anything. Their role is to
listen and offer support grounded in shared humanity rather than professional expertise.

Do I need to be referred by a professional?
No. Anyone is welcome to contact us directly. You’re also welcome to share this page with
others you feel could benefit from the program.

Is there a cost to participate?
No. All SSP services are provided at no cost to participants, thanks to the generosity of our
donors and supporters, including United Way, the City of Toronto, and private donors.