We understand there are many mixed feelings and emotions when someone dies.

People experience grief in different ways and we recognise that people’s support needs are different during this time. In this section of the website you can find out more about how grief effects people, ways of coping and details regarding the bereavement support services avialable.

On this page…

Grief is the powerful, often painful and confusing response to the loss of an important person in your life. It can change how you feel, physically and emotionally, how you think about things and how you behave.

Understanding the many feelings and sensations involved will not take the pain away but it can help to make it feel more manageable. People expect to feel sad and weepy after a death. Sometimes you may feel nothing or feel guilty and angry, which can be more difficult to cope with, especially if this is directed towards the person who has died. It can be hard to accept loss.

You may find yourself denying that the death has occurred, and it is not unusual to think you have seen or heard the person after they have died. Many bereaved people feel strained and physically run down, finding it difficult to eat or sleep. You may experience loneliness and alienation from others and may feel yourself withdrawing. You may experience despair and depression and find that you have lost all interest in living. Grief can also be unpredictable and doesn’t stay the same each day, but rather it can come in waves.

These conflicting and unexpected emotions can be very confusing so it is helpful to know that they are all natural grief responses and that the intensity and frequency will change over time.

Talking to a supportive, understanding listener can help.

Everyone grieves differently, there is no right or wrong way to grieve, no time-frame and everyone’s grief is unique. As you grieve:

  • Realise and recognise the extent of your loss
  • Try to be patient and understanding with yourself as you come to terms with it
  • Allow yourself time to express your feelings
  • Try to rest, eat well and keep some structure to your day
  • Accept support, both emotional and practical from caring friends and family
  • Seek out accurate information and support about grief and loss

Support services

For further information please view the following resources:

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