ABSTRACT
Postvention deals with the traumatic after-effects in the survivors. Survivors need social support after a trauma. Positive adjustive strategies need to be fostered by the social system, such as schools. One of the main contentions is that postvention in schools/communities should be designed to address not only suicide but other traumas as well. Educational systems need to develop a linkage system or network to aid in making referrals to the appropriate community services and to exchange information and coordinate services with appropriate community services as needed. Such a network is central to responding to a trauma and should be predefined. Information about suicide in the form of publicity, especially that which tends to sensationalize or glamorize the suicide, should be avoided. Periodic follow-ups are undertaken with the school administrators, school staff, and mental health professionals. A formal final consultation and evaluation is provided several months after the suicide to facilitate a formal closure to the program.
