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For those left behind, the period immediately following the death of a loved one can be an intensely sad and stressful time. An elected death - a rational suicide - can present an additional and unique set of circumstances.
On the one hand, family and friends may be enormously relieved that their loved one was able to die peacefully and with dignity. On the other hand, there may be feelings of resentment, even anger that the person they loved has chosen to leave them. While it is one thing to know that a person you love is about to die by their own hand, it is another to be able to predict how this will make you feel.
There will also be a number of practical issues that those left behind have to confront. In the case of a well planned death, some of these will have been discussed before the death. For example, will anyone be responsible for clearing away any used equipment from the scene of death? And what about a suicide note? Who will keep hold of it, should one be required?