How to Cope with the Loss of a Loved One

Coping with the loss of a loved one is never easy, in fact, it can be devastating. There is no right way to feel, and everyone reacts differently to bereavement. It’s likely that you will go through a range of emotions.

Emotions can come over you like a wave and you may feel as if you’ve been knocked off your feet. This is perfectly normal and is part of the grieving process.

Allow yourself to Feel

Remind yourself that you are allowed to feel all of the emotions that can hit you like a slap in the face. It’s important that you understand there is no right or wrong way to feel.

Let People Support you

It’s important that you let people support you during this difficult time. While you may wish to be along you should try not to spend too much time by yourself. Friends and family will want to help and support you during this difficult time. They can help you with your grief and make you feel like you’re not alone.

Try to Accept That They are Gone

I know that you may not want to accept that your loved one has gone. I know what it’s like to expect them to walk through the door any minute now, however, you may have to deal with funeral arrangements. Try to look at what headstones are available and find one that you think is suitable. Some people find that dealing with funeral arrangements can help you to accept your loss.

The Different Stages of Grief

There are five stages of grief that many people find themselves going through. These stages are:

• Denial – It may seem completely incomprehensible to you that your loved one is gone.
• Anger – You may feel anger at your loved one for leaving you, this is normal.
• Bargaining – It’s not uncommon for those who are grieving to go through the bargaining stage. This stage typically involves the grieving person thinking “If only this had happened things would be different.
• Depression – You may feel an overwhelming sadness, this is perfectly normal and it will not last forever.
• Acceptance – This is the final stage of grief and will see you coming to terms with your loved-one’s death, however hard it might be. Your pain will be more manageable now and you may find yourself trying to get on with day-to-day activities.

Grief can be overwhelming, it can be devastating and make you feel alone. With a little bit of help from family and friends, you can start to accept the death of your loved one. Please make sure you don’t spend too much time alone. Talk about your feelings and give yourself time to grieve. Think about how your loved one would have wanted you to carry on doing the things you enjoy. Take one day at a time and sooner or later the pain won’t hurt quite so much. If you find you’re struggling talk to a doctor or counsellor about your pain.