LOSS TEAM

Program Description
The Alternative Paths LOSS (Local Outreach of Suicide Survivors) Team for Medina County supports postvention efforts following a death by suicide. All postvention activities focus on support for the bereaved—family, friends, professionals, and peers. Connecting to services and supports as soon as possible can reduce stigma, restore hope, and promote healing. Funding for the LOSS Team is provided by the Medina County ADAMH Board.

 Services Provided

  • Crisis response outreach at the location of a suicide death. Clinicians trained in crisis response provide immediate support to loved ones.

  • Ongoing outreach to suicide loss survivors in the days, weeks, and months following the loss.

  • Referrals to bereavement resources for healthy grieving and mental health support.

  • Clinicians provide support but do not serve as ongoing treatment providers.

Postvention is Prevention

  • Activities after a suicide can reduce the risk of additional deaths.

  • Families with a history of suicide are at higher risk.

  • Many survivors delay seeking bereavement resources due to lack of awareness.

  • Suicide loss often creates complicated grief processes impacted by stigma. Early support reduces long-term mental health effects.

  • The LOSS Team works as part of a county-wide prevention effort, including the Suicide Prevention Coalition, HOPE Squad, QPR Trainings, CIT, and 24/7 Crisis Services.

Principles of a LOSS Team

  1. Safety: Survivors may worry about their own or loved ones’ safety.

  2. Calming: Suicide often causes fear, distress, and anxiety.

  3. Connectedness: Suicide can shatter bonds among families, friends, and communities.

  4. Self and Community Efficacy: Survivors can draw upon strengths and coping strategies to rebuild.

  5. Hope: Promote a sense of hope when survivors feel their world is falling apart.

Team Objectives

  • Establish a human connection in a compassionate manner.

  • Provide immediate and ongoing safety, comfort, and calming.

  • Assess and address survivors’ urgent needs.

  • Offer practical assistance and information.

  • Connect survivors quickly with support networks.

  • Support coping, acknowledge strengths, and empower survivors.

  • Ensure survivors understand the LOSS Team’s role.

  • Educate about the 24/7 Crisis and Behavioral Health Helpline in Medina County.