National Day of Reflection
Published on 23 March 2022 12:35 PM
This National Day of Reflection it is important to remember the millions of people who have lost someone over the last 2 years.
Coping with bereavement raises lots of different emotions, which may be hard to process. We are here for you; providing a Companionship & Bereavement Service to help support you through it.
How can I cope with my feelings after the loss of a loved one?
Grief can make you feel many different things. It is important to remember that these feelings are not bad or wrong. They are a normal part of bereavement, and there are no quick answers to how you might be feeling.
Coping with fear
Feeling fearful and anxious is natural – your familiar world has been turned upside down. You may feel that you have little control over your life, your thoughts and emotions. This is likely to make you feel vulnerable and afraid. But as you get used to coping, in time, you will begin to feel more capable of dealing with your changed circumstances.
Something that might help: If you are feeling overwhelmed by fearful thoughts or anxiety, it could help to talk to someone about how you are feeling. It can take a lot of courage to admit you are struggling, but do not keep it to yourself.
Coping with emptiness and depression
Feelings of depression and emptiness can hit you when the reality of the loss begins to sink in. Although it may feel almost unbearable at the time, this seems to be a period when some inner healing takes place. Afterwards, people say they feel lighter, more in control of their lives and better able to look forward.
Sadness is a natural response to bereavement, but some people may become depressed. You do not have to try to cope on your own and help is available.
Something that might help: You can talk to your doctor at any time, in complete confidence. They will not judge you – they are there to listen and help you get back on track.
Coping with anger
You may feel anger at the injustice of your loss, or at the lack of understanding in others. You might be angry at yourself and at the person who died, who has left you feeling abandoned, frightened and alone. These feelings are normal.
Something that might help: Do not bottle up your feelings – try to think about the reasons for your anger. Talking about your feelings with someone who is not emotionally involved in your loss can help. It is not always easy to open up about our feelings, but there is a lot of truth in that old saying 'a problem shared is a problem halved.'
Coping with guilt
Some people experience feelings of guilt when someone dies. You may find yourself wondering if you could have done more to help, or feeling guilty about something you said or did not say to them when they were alive.
Something that might help: Guilt is a natural emotion after bereavement, but it is important not to dwell on things in the past that you cannot change. Try not to be too hard on yourself or anyone else.
Coping with loneliness
You may feel as though the person who died has left a big hole in your life, and this can leave you feeling lonely, especially if you spent a lot of your time with them.
Something that might help: Make the most of opportunities to spend time with other people and keep in touch with friends and family. We also offer various services and activities to help keep you involved in society and socialising with others.
Services we offer to help you through Bereavement
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Befriending for the Bereaved
We will provide trusted volunteers who can provide a listening ear through visits or by phone. When ready, they can help people stay ‘socially connected’ by accompanying them to various activities.
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Befriending
Befriending is available for older people who live alone, have no family living locally or feel socially isolated and lack social contact. Providing regular companionship to older people who best need it
Other ways you can get yourself involved
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Social Activities
We run regular social activities across Worcester & Malvern Hills. Meet with others over tea and cake at out Connect Clubs, get active with our Enjoy Dancing classes or sign up to be a member of Men's Shed Worcester.
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Volunteer
Consider volunteering for us and help us to continue to support older people across Worcester & Malvern Hills. Volunteering is a great way to meet other people, keep your mind occupied and provide a sense of accomplishment.
Contact us
We are here to help you. Visit our contact us page to find all the ways you can get in touch with Age UK Worcester, Malvern Hills & Hereford Localities.