How to help yourself cope with the death of a loved one

Grief is a normal reaction to the loss of someone very close, but it can feel so frightening and distressing that you may feel like you are going mad.  Try and allow yourself time to grieve at your own pace but:

• Be patient with yourself 
  • Try not to compare yourself with others; only you know how you feel and what you need to do.  Grief can hit you hard and affect you for a long time after the funeral is over
• Take care of yourself
  • Look after your body; you still need periods of rest even if you cannot sleep at night
  • Eat regularly; food gives you energy even if you don't fell like eating
  • Comfort yourself when you are feeling low or unhappy
  • Consider reducing your workload if it feels to great at the moment
  • Be around people but also make time to be alone with your thoughts
  • Try some gentle exercise, like a walk
• Ask for and accept help - both for practical tasks and support
• Try writing - about how you are feeling or memories of the deceased
• Talk to others; they may be afraid of upsetting you by mentioning your loss but may be willing to listen or help if asked

Loss has been likened to a physical injury; it is a blow, a wound occurs, then there is healing.  This can take time but is a normal process.