“First Aid” Tips for Coping with Bereavement

The whole subject of bereavement is far too complex to deal with in a short article like this.

However, there are a few vital things that are important to remember.

We can pretty much take it as read that we will all have to deal with the loss of a loved one at some point in our lives.

No matter how expected the loss is, we never quite know how we will react or cope.

It’s important to remember that there are no “rules” as to the grieving process other than we will all go through the process at our own pace.

I hear people say “It’s been X number of years now, I should be over this” and I wonder whose rules they are going by.

We are all affected for different periods of time.

We might be fine for months on end and then something happens to remind us and we feel low again.

Here are some things; I call them “First Aid” tips for bereavement, for the days that you’re feeling low, hurting or need a bit of looking after.

Bereavement; It’s OK to cry

In fact, crying is good.

Sometimes it can be helpful to have a good cry; it stops you bottling everything up.

Find somewhere you feel safe, grab a box of tissues and let out all those tears.

Anger is a natural part of the grieving process.

Just make sure that you find a safe way of showing your anger without hurting yourself or others.

Find a place to be alone and beat up a pillow and shout.

You could even go to the beach and see how far out to sea you can hurl some “anger stones”.

People tell me they feel guilty if they are not thinking about the person who died.

Truth is, some days all you can do is think about them whilst other days you might hardly think about them at all.

Again, it’s natural and there are no rules.

You can chat with friends, family or anyone you trust.

You can chat anonymously on internet forums to people who have had similar experiences or seek professional help.

Cruse Bereavement Care does an outstanding job.

Remember, you’re doing well. Be proud of yourself!