Continuing Bonds Through After-Death Spiritual Experiences in Individuals Bereaved by Suicide

Abstract

Bereaved persons sometimes report after-death spiritual experiences with loved ones who have died, which may represent continuing bonds, though little research exists regarding this phenomenon among those bereaved by suicide. This study sought to examine the frequency and correlates of these experiences among survivors of suicide loss. A majority of respondents experienced continuing bonds through after-death spiritual experiences, which take the form of dreams or feeling the presence of the person, among others. Generally, these experiences are regarded as positive and are often discussed with others. Implications suggest that these experiences likely represent continuing bonds with the deceased.

KEYWORDS:

• bereavement
• postvention
• spirituality
• after-death communication
• continuing bonds

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

We would like to thank Kelly Cukrowicz for her assistance with this research, and all of those bereaved by suicide who inspired this project and contributed to it through sharing their experiences.