Useful Information
This section contains numerous pieces of useful information
including:
Use the links on the left hand side to access this, and
other information.
Please see the Government's DirectGov website if you would like
information on
Living Wills.
Coping with Bereavement
Bereavement is a distressing experience which all of us
encounter sometime in our lives. We all deal with grief in
different ways. Grieving is a natural process that can take place
after any kind of loss. It is an overpowering emotion that needs to
run its course. Although we are all individuals we go through the
same feelings, but not always in the same order. Disbelief,
numbness, yearning for the person who has died, outburst of tears,
disturbed sleep, guilt and anger are all common feelings we need to
deal with.
These strong emotions can be felt for quite a while after the
death. It is best to return to normal life as soon as possible. The
phrase "time is a great healer" is in most cases certainly true,
however the pain of losing someone never entirely ,disappears, nor
should it be expected to.
Practical help can be a listening ear, being able to talk and
cry with the bereaved. Not mentioning the deceased for fear of
upsetting the bereaved can lead to a sense of isolation, which can
add to the grief.
A respectful interment or cremation is part of the grieving
process.
A few helpful hints
DON'T hide your feelings, rush into funeral arrangements, make
major life changes, neglect yourself, enter into any financial
arrangements, hurry yourself into overcoming your grief, let others
rush you, turn to drugs, smoking or alcohol.
DO express your feelings, talk through what has happened with
someone you feel comfortable with, contact a support group if you
need help, take good care of yourself, choose a funeral director
you like and trust, contact your doctor if you feel unwell, keep in
touch with family and friends.
