I've been dealing with my own sense of guilt, but was surprised to realize that the kids were also dealing with this.

Children sometimes wonder why their love or presence wasn’t enough to make the person want to stay alive. They need to be reassured over and over again that the suicide was not their fault in any way. Let them know that:

• Children are not responsible for adult choices.

• The factors that lead to suicide are complex and beyond their control.

Also let them know that mental illnesses such as depression, are not the fault of the person experiencing them. 

• They didn’t want to feel this way.

• They struggled a lot to find ways to feel better. 

Supporting children in their sense of powerlessness is possibly one your most important roles at this time.