It’s OK not to be OK: how to face your bereavement
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED ABOUT HANDLING THE LOSS OF A LOVED ONE
When you lose a loved one, there is no limit to the barrage of feelings, memories, thoughts and questions you may experience. There is no “wrong” or “right” way to grieve, and everyone goes on their own emotional journey.
To help, Co-op Funeralcare has put together a list of commonly asked questions.
How long will my grief
Q last?
There is no finite period. A
Some people work through things quickly, others might not feel they’ve fully grieved after a year or more.
How should I feel after
Q losing someone?
You may feel sad,
A frightened, lonely or angry following a bereavement. All are normal reactions to have – don’t second-guess yourself. For example, crying doesn’t mean you’re weak and you shouldn’t feel that you have to stay strong for others.
On the other hand, not crying doesn’t mean you don’t feel the loss deeply.
Should I talk to my
Q children about death? Children are far more
A perceptive than we think, so the best approach is to be straight with them. Speak simply and clearly and answer their questions.
Who do I need to tell?
Q
Who you speak to
A following a bereavement is entirely your choice. It’s always a good idea to tell your employer so they can provide you with support.
How do I move on?
Q
Losing a loved one doesn’t A cut your bonds with them. Don’t think of bereavement as “getting over” the loss, rather something you will learn to live with. We carry our memories with us.