The Grieving Process
Bereavement is one of the most stressful events you are ever likely to experience, with the death of a spouse considered the most stressful life events one can experience.
Dealing with the varying and sometimes overwhelming emotions when someone dies is very hard. Evidence shows that many people who ignore their grief often experience unresolved psychological issues and physical problems later. To be able to come to terms with your loss and carry on with your life you need to grieve.
Often we tend not to grieve because it is simply too painful and we would rather ignore the feelings. Some people feel embarrassed or think they should ‘pull themselves together’ or be ‘getting on with things’. Dealing with the emotions at the time, as painful as they are, is the beginning of the healing process.
The grieving process is very different for each person but most people experience similar stages. You will never forget your loved one but in order to move on you will need to reach the stage where you can accept their death. Getting to this stage very much depends on you, but it can take months or even years.
During this time you should seek out the help and support of family and friends. If you are struggling to cope with your feelings then you can find help from your GP, Cruse or the National Association of Bereavement Services 020 7709 0505.