A week-long conference is being held in Sydney to raise awareness and find ways to better help the people left behind after a suicide.
Experts say people who have lost a loved one to suicide are eight times more likely to do the same.
"Instead of receiving the compassion that they think they would expect to get from close loved ones, family members, neighbours, very often people don't mention the suicide," said Beverly Feigleman who lost her son to suicide 12 years ago.
"For me it was the beginning of the most horrible day, and continues to be a very horrific experience," she said.
Beverly Feigleman and her husband William are among the speakers who are sharing their experiences, and using them to help others cope with their loss.
Globally, more than 800,000 take their own lives each year. In Australia, seven people die from it each day.
"It's not only the family, it's the next-door neighbour, it could be a colleague in the club, it's a ripple effect right throughout the community," said Alan Staines with Postvention Australia.
Social workers say support services are important for people, especially knowing where to turn for help.
Beverly Feigleman says so is something as simple as knowing other people care.
"I have a little calendar that says if you mention my loved one's name i may cry, if you don't mention his name you'll break my heart."
* Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467.
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