Postvention
Postvention is the support and care given to people and communities after a suicide or traumatic event. It helps those affected cope with their loss, find healing, and prevent further tragedies by offering counseling, resources, and education.
Losing someone to drug misuse or overdose shatters your world in ways words can’t fully express. It’s a loss that changes the fabric of your life, leaving you to navigate a storm of emotions—grief, anger, confusion, and an ache that feels unbearable.
At White Cross, we understand the depth of this pain. We believe in creating a space where you can confront your feelings, ask your questions, and begin to heal. While it might feel impossible now, you will find your way forward, step by step.
You are not alone. There is a community of survivors who have walked this path and stand ready to support you. Through shared stories, resources, and meaningful action, we can work together to honor those we've lost, spread awareness, and inspire change.
Your healing matters. Your voice matters. Together, we can turn this loss into a force for understanding, hope, and prevention.
Resources
Here are some helpful resources you can use right now:
National Hotlines and Immediate Support SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-HELP) Free, confidential 24/7 help for individuals and families facing substance use disorders. Offers referrals to treatment centers and local resources. Crisis Text Line Text HOME to 741741 for free 24/7 crisis support via text. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK) Provides support for individuals in distress, including those struggling with substance use.
Online Support Groups and Communities SMART Recovery Offers a science-based, self-help program for addiction recovery. Online and in-person meetings, with resources for building motivation and coping. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) / Narcotics Anonymous (NA) Peer-led 12-step programs with meetings worldwide. Online meetings available for accessibility. Reddit Communities Subreddits like r/StopDrinking and r/OpiatesRecovery offer peer support and shared experiences.
Educational and Motivational Resources Recovery.org A comprehensive guide to treatment options and recovery tips. Includes information about support groups, sober living, and coping strategies. Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Provides treatment programs and educational materials for substance abuse recovery. Addiction Resource Free online resource with articles, rehab directories, and hotline numbers.
Apps for Recovery Support Sober Grid A social network for people in recovery, offering peer support and tracking sobriety milestones. I Am Sober Tracks days sober, offers daily motivations, and provides tools for building healthy habits. Pocket Rehab 24/7 support and advice from professionals and others in recovery.
Holistic Healing and Lifestyle Yoga and Mindfulness for Recovery Online classes and resources like Yoga for Recovery and Mindful.org promote stress management and emotional balance. Exercise and Nutrition Programs Programs like Phoenix Multisport offer sober fitness communities to boost mental and physical well-being. Creative Outlets Writing, music, or art therapy can be powerful ways to process emotions during recovery.