Amarillo Public Health has partnered with local organizations to provide compassionate, timely support for individuals impacted by suicide loss.
- CONTACT INFORMATION
- 806-378-6300
- 806-378-6306
-
Office Hours:
Monday – Thursday
7:30 am – 6:00 pm -
Main Office:
1000 Martin Rd
Amarillo, TX 79107 -
Clinic:
850 Martin Rd
Amarillo, TX 79107
Local Outreach to survivors of suicide Loss (LOSS) Team Program
The LOSS Team offers a range of resources and services to help Survivors of Suicide Loss through the grieving process, at no cost.
Local Outreach to Survivors of Suicide Loss Program Contact Information
- LOSS Team Program Manager Sheri Friemel
- Email: sheri.friemel@amarillo.gov
- Phone: 806-378-6379
LOSS Program Highlights
Immediate or Follow-Up Support
- Compassionate care and guidance are provided on-site or shortly after a loss.
Scene Restoration
- Biological Cleanup
Resource Binders
- Comprehensive resources, including counseling services, grief support groups, and practical guidance for navigating the aftermath of a suicide.
Follow-Up Care
- Ongoing support and resources to help survivors in their grief journey.
Suicide Grievers Support Group
The Suicide Grievers Support Group provides a safe and welcoming space for individuals who have lost someone to suicide. This peer-led group meets monthly at no cost, offering an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and find support in a compassionate environment.
Suicide Grievers Support Group Meeting Details:
- Second Tuesday of each month, 6:00 pm– 7:30 pm
- Amarillo Public Library — Southwest Branch (6801 SW 45th Ave, Amarillo, TX 79109)
- Open to survivors of suicide loss aged 17 and older
- Childcare is not provided
Whether your loss is recent or years past, the group is here to provide understanding and encouragement as you navigate your journey of healing.
Breathe-Heal-Live
Saturday, September 19
10:00 am – 4:00 pm
Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Join us for a hope-filled day for suicide loss survivors. Connect with nature, fellow survivors, and enjoy a beautiful setting.
LOSS Volunteer Opportunities
Mental health professionals and community advocates are needed to join the LOSS Team or become peer supporters. Join our movement to make a community of hope.
Volunteer Activities
- On-call response
- Peer-group facilitation
- Follow-up calls
- Community outreach
- Connection and support
For more information, contact LOSS Team Program Manager Sheri Friemel at sheri.friemel@amarillo.gov or 806-378-6379. Training is provided.
To join our team of advocates, please fill out the following form.
Additional Support Resources
- Amarillo Area LOSS Team Private Facebook Group
- 988 Lifeline Page
- National LOSS Team Page
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
- Talk Away The Dark Page
- American Association of Suicidology
Needing mental health, substance use, or suicide support?
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 9-8-8 offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call, or chat 9-8-8 to access this free service.
Local Outreach to Survivors
of Suicide Loss (LOSS) Program FAQS
What is a LOSS Team?
A LOSS Team is a postvention program that provides support to family members, friends, and loved ones of individuals who have died by suicide, often referred to as Survivors of Suicide Loss. The team consists of mental health professionals and trained community volunteers who have experience with suicide loss. The team offers emotional support, resources, and guidance to help individuals navigate the grieving process, in alignment with the postvention model.
How can I contact the LOSS Team for support?
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a suicide loss, the LOSS Team is here to help. Contact the Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors Program using the information below:
- Email: sheri.friemel@amarillo.gov
- Phone: 806-378-6379
The LOSS Team provides compassionate support and resources to help navigate the grieving process.
How does a LOSS Team work?
LOSS Teams are a partnership between first responders and trained suicide loss survivor advocates. When a suicide occurs, law enforcement notifies the LOSS Team, and trained advocates are sent to the scene to offer support. The team provides immediate emotional care, resource binders with local counseling services and support groups, and answers to questions the survivors may have. If an on-scene response is not possible, the team will follow up with the survivors as soon as possible, otherwise known as a delayed-support response.
What services do LOSS Teams provide?
LOSS Teams offer compassionate support and resources to help survivors navigate the unique challenges of suicide loss. Services are tailored to meet survivors’ needs and promote healing during this difficult time.
Immediate On-Scene or Delayed Support: Compassionate listening and answers to questions after a death by suicide.
Resource Binders: Survivors receive a binder with helpful resources, including local counseling services, support group information, and guidance on navigating grief after a suicide.
Grief Support Groups: Monthly meetings for suicide survivors to connect with others who understand their experience.
Ongoing Follow-Up Support: Follow-up calls and guidance tailored to each survivor’s unique grieving process.
Training for Volunteers: Training opportunities for those interested in joining the LOSS Team or becoming peer supporters.
All services are at no cost.
Why is a LOSS Team important?
Suicide grief is unique and often carries a deep stigma. Survivors of suicide loss can experience feelings of confusion, anger, guilt, and a constant search for answers. A LOSS Team offers compassionate, non-judgmental support to help these individuals navigate these emotions and connect with healing resources. Since one suicide can impact an average of 135 people, and survivors are 7 times more likely to die by suicide themselves, the work of a LOSS Team is critical in preventing further tragedy and promoting healing.
Who can access the services of a LOSS Team?
Any individual who has been affected by the suicide of a loved one can access the services of a LOSS Team. This includes family members, friends, co-workers, or others who are grieving the loss. Support is available regardless of when the suicide occurred.
What does a LOSS Team volunteer do?
LOSS Team volunteers play a crucial role in supporting individuals impacted by suicide loss. Volunteers are trained to:
- Provide Emotional Support: Offer compassionate listening and understanding to survivors of suicide loss during on-scene or follow-up visits.
- Distribute Resources: Share resource binders with survivors, which include local counseling services, support group information, and guidance for navigating grief.
- Assist at Support Groups: Help facilitate the Suicide Grievers Support Group by creating a safe and welcoming environment for participants.
Volunteering with the LOSS Team is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on individuals and families during a challenging time. If you’re interested in volunteering, contact the LOSS Team Program Manager for more information.
Who can I contact if I am dealing with a mental health or substance use crisis?
The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline 9-8-8 offers 24/7 judgment-free support for mental health, substance use, and more. Text, call, or chat 988 to access this free service.