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The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations
Suicide loss changes everything. This show is about life after suicide—real talk and practical support for grief after suicide: parents, partners, siblings, and friends finding their footing again. Each week, we explore what helps in suicide bereavement so you can keep going with honesty and hope.
Hosted by Melissa Bottorff-Arey, whose 21-year-old son, Alex, died by suicide in 2016, the podcast blends intimate conversations with survivors, healers, and mental health experts with short solo “Daily Nugget” episodes you can actually use. We cover child loss, trauma and nervous-system care, anniversaries and seasons, stigma, faith and meaning, legacy, and the everyday practices that make life livable again. You’ll hear grounded tools, language that honors your person, and the reminder that you are not broken—you are grieving.
For supporters and educators, these episodes offer insight into the realities of suicide grief and what genuine, non-fixing support looks like. If you’d like to share your story or expertise, you can request to be a guest via my website. 💜
Content Note
This podcast speaks candidly about difficult experiences and may feel activating. We avoid method details and graphic description. Please care for yourself as needed. I’m not a doctor or licensed therapist; nothing here is medical or mental-health advice.
The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations
Suicide Loss Daily Nugget: Weekend Reset Ritual—Small, Repeatable, Real
Weekends can feel loud or empty after suicide loss; one tiny ritual can steady you without draining you.
Journal prompt: “Today, leaning into self-care looks like…”
Weekends can feel loud or empty. Today we keep a tiny ritual that steadies you without stealing your energy.
A Flicker (Hope) — A repeatable calm spot
The same mug, the same chair, the same two minutes of quiet. Familiar can be soothing—let it be.
To Rebuild (Healing) — Three-part reset (≤10 minutes)
- Clear a square: Tidy one small surface (nightstand, counter corner).
- Add a comfort: Warm drink, soft blanket, favorite song (60 seconds).
- Mark the moment: Light a candle or open a window; take one slow exhale.
Take a Step (Becoming) — Name your ritual
Give it a simple name—“Morning Patch,” “Porch Pause,” “Candle Minute.” Put it on your calendar for next Saturday/Sunday.
Choose-your-energy menu:
- Hollow (low): Sit in your calm spot for 2 minutes. Breathe out longer than you breathe in.
- Healing (medium): Do the three-part reset once today.
- Becoming (higher): Schedule this ritual for both weekend days for the next month.
Food for Thought Today:
Rituals are bricks, not magic. The point isn’t special—it’s steady. Repeating one small kindness for your nervous system teaches your body where to find you when the day tilts.
Exhale. Keep what serves you; leave the rest. I’ll be here again tomorrow. 💜
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💜 The Leftover Pieces is support central for grieving hearts.
🔗 Stay connected: Join my free email community for weekly check-ins, resources, and encouragement.
🌟 For moms: Explore the $9 Lighthouse Community — safe connection, tools, and hope.
🛠 Resources for all grievers: Start here.
🤝 One-on-one grief coaching for moms after child loss to suicide: Learn more here.
📞 Need help now? If you or someone you love is struggling with suicidal thoughts, dial 988 in the U.S. & Canada, or text HOME to 741741.