Bereavement
Bereavement is the loss of somebody we love and it is a distressing but common experience. One in four adults will have experienced the death of someone close to them in the last five years. The impact of somebody’s death can range from painful but bearable to emotionally catastrophic.
Mourning is the way that we begin the grief process for this person and begin to come to terms with their death. The circumstances surrounding their death will affect the way that you grieve. People experience a variety of physical and emotional responses to a bereavement and may feel depressed or permanently lacking in energy.
A feeling of disbelief is a common response to a bereavement and will, in most cases, pass and people often feel overwhelmed by all of the arrangement they need to make. Allow people who are willing to help to do so. It is also normal to feel relieved if the person had been suffering and in pain. You may feel guilty and have regrets. It is also possible to experience panic attacks during a time of grief due to the overpowering thoughts and emotions, such as anger, that you may be experiencing. All of these things are part of the normal grieving process. (Adapted from the MIND booklet Understanding Beravement)
How can we help you
There are books available from local libraries and book shops:
- You’ll Get Over It: Rage of Bereavement by Virginia Ironside
Below are detailed web links to further informaiton on berevement:
- www.helpguide.org/mental/grief_loss.htm
- www.mind.org.uk/Information/Booklets/Understanding/Understanding+bereavement.htm
- www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mentalhealthinformation/mentalhealthproblems/bereavement/bereavement.aspx
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