The Continuum of Survivorship: Definitional Issues in the Aftermath of Suicide

In light of prevailing confusion over the meaning of the term suicide survivor, we propose a more exact terminology for designating different levels of impact on those left behind by suicide, ranging on a continuum from those exposed to suicide through those who are affected by it and finally to those who are bereaved by suicide in the short- or long-term, as a function of their loss of a close emotional attachment through this tragic form of loss. We briefly note the possible utility of this terminological specificity in promoting more clearly targeted research and intervention efforts, and call for closer investigation of various categories of survivorship in future studies.