Impact of Social Support on Symptoms of Depression and Loneliness in Survivors Bereaved by Suicide

According to the latest statistics from the American Association of Suicidology, there were approximately 41,000 suicides in the United States, accounting for 112 suicides per day or one every 12.8 minutes (Drapeau & McIntosh, 2015). Survivors bereaved by suicide often experience complicated grief and feelings of social isolation. The study was a secondary data analysis from a study which involved 44 participants over the age of 18 from Southwestern Pennsylvania. Symptoms of depression and loneliness were assessed in relation to reported social support available to participants. The findings support the notion that increased availability of support can decrease symptoms of depression.