Internet Forums for Suicide Bereavement A Cross-Sectional Survey of Users

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Bereavement by suicide is associated with a number of consequences including poor mental health outcomes and increased suicide risk. Despite this, the bereaved by suicide may be reluctant to seek help from friends, family, and professionals. Internet forums and social networking sites are a popular avenue of support for the bereaved, but to date there is a lack of research into their use and efficacy. AIMS: To survey users of suicide bereavement Internet forums and Facebook groups regarding their help-seeking behaviors, use of forums, and perceived benefits and limitations of such use. METHOD: This study employed a cross-sectional design in which users of suicide bereavement Inte..