Pre- and postloss features of adolescent suicide bereavement: A systematic review

Abstract

Despite increasing clinical and research interest in suicide bereavement the impact of suicide on adolescents is still poorly understood. This systematic review aims to disentangle pre- and postloss features that affect response to grief in this age group. The literature was analyzed after a systematic search and hand-check of retrieved articles. The impact of suicide is affected by (a) preloss features related to personal/family history of mental health, family life, suicidal behavior, and type and emotional closeness of relationship; and (b) postloss issues such as quality of remaining relationships. Future research and bereavement support should consider these broader contexts.