Bereavement
Understanding Bereavement
Bereavement is the profound experience of grief and mourning that follows the death of someone important to you. While it is an inevitable part of life, losing a loved one can be one of the most painful experiences. This experience isn’t limited to emotional responses; grief can also trigger physical reactions such as changes in appetite or weight, difficulty sleeping, aches, pains, and even an impaired immune system.
Helpful Ways to Cope with Bereavement, Grief, and Loss
Do:
- Seek Support: Talk openly about your feelings with trusted friends, family, a health professional, or a counsellor. Organisations like Cruse offer specialised bereavement support, which you can contact at 0808 808 1677 or through their website.
- Prioritise Sleep: If you’re struggling to sleep, explore practical sleep tips available from Every Mind Matters.
- Consider Peer Support: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can be incredibly beneficial. You can find more information about peer support on the Mind website.
- Utilise Self-Help Resources: Listen to free mental wellbeing audio guides or explore the “6 ways to feel happier” for simple lifestyle changes that can help you feel more in control and better able to cope.
Don’t:
- Avoid Overwhelm: Do not try to accomplish everything at once. Instead, set small, manageable targets.
- Focus on What You Can Control: Avoid dwelling on things you cannot change; direct your energy towards helping yourself feel better.
- Remember You’re Not Alone: Most people experience grief after a loss, and support is available. Try not to isolate yourself.
- Steer Clear of Harmful Coping Mechanisms: Do not use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling, or drugs to relieve grief, as these can contribute to poorer mental health.
Further Information and Support
For additional guidance and support, consider these resources:
- Grief and Bereavement: Comprehensive information is available on the Cruse website. Home – Cruse Bereavement Support
- Bereavement by Suicide: The Mind website provides specific information and support for those who have lost someone to suicide. We’re Mind, the mental health charity | Mind
- Practical Steps After a Death: The GOV.UK website offers practical advice on administrative tasks after a death, such as registering the death and planning a funeral. Death and bereavement – GOV.UK
