As well as the supports that we would normally draw upon when we experience grief, there are other things that you can do which may be of help, which include:
- Allowing yourself to feel and react in a way that is natural to you. Grief is an individual experience and each of us will respond to it in our own particular way.
- Try not to become emotionally isolated. If people cannot visit you in person, they will be able to offer their condolences and support in different ways. You may receive condolence cards, phone-calls, text messages, emails and messages through social media.
- Keep conversations going with people who are closest to you. It may be helpful to talk to someone by telephone each day.
- Having ‘conversations’ through WhatsApp or through Facebook can mean there is a regular flow of communication throughout the day. These interactions can remind you that people are thinking about you.
- Try to stick to your normal routine as much as possible. As well as bedtime and getting up time, mealtimes play an important part in this.
- It is important to remember to eat and to keep hydrated. Your body has needs and grief can be hard work.
- If there are children in your household, check in with them often. Answer their questions honestly. Section 5 of our bereavement booklet provides useful information regarding supporting children.
Useful resources
Cruse Bereavement Care National Free Phone Helpline
- Telephone: 0808 808 1677
The service operates Monday to Friday, 9:30pm to 5:00pm (excluding bank holidays). There are extended hours until 8:00pm on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
GriefChat
GriefChat is a safe online chat service for grieving or bereaved people to be able to share their story, explore their feelings or be supported by a qualified bereavement counsellor.
The service is available Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 9:00pm.