When someone dies

It can be devastating when someone close to you dies. You might feel a number of emotions all at once and it can be overwhelming. But it’s important to remember that there’s no right or wrong way to feel. Grief is a natural response to losing someone close to you. While grieving, you will probably experience a range of intense emotions. Some people feel them more strongly than others. Some days you may feel as if you’re coping better but on other days struggle with overwhelming emotions. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve and the process will be different for everyone.

Emptiness and sadness

The feeling of emptiness that occurs when someone dies may feel overwhelming or as if it will never go away. But for some this sadness may become depression. If you feel as if you may be depressed, you’re unable to think about anything but the person who has died or you’re struggling with self-care such as eating and sleeping, you should see your doctor for help and advice.

Guilt and Relief

Some people experience feelings of guilt when someone dies. You may find yourself wondering whether you could have done more to help, or feeling guilty about something you said or didn’t say to them when they were alive. Guilt is a very natural feeling after a loss but it’s important to try not to dwell on the past. You may experience relief, especially if the person had been ill or in pain before their death, but it’s very natural to feel this way. Contact Cruse Bereavement Care for help and support on 0808 808 1677

Looking after your health

Bereavement can have a physical impact as well as emotional. These emotions can leave you feeling tired and drained. Make sure you don’t neglect your health - it’s important that you look after yourself during this difficult time.

If you’ve been left alone

If you have lost someone and have now been left feeling alone it can be particularly difficult. However, there are helplines you can call if you need to talk to someone about how you’re feeling, or you could talk to your GP.

Age UK Dorchester has a befriending service called ‘Reach Out’ … contact Lisa Holmes on 01305 269444 for more details, or visit www.ageukdorchester.org.uk

PETER LINDSLEY

AGE UK DORCHESTER