Life can be cruel. And if you’re someone who has recently lost a loved one, you’ll understand that statement more than most. When a death occurs it’s utterly heartbreaking, but when that death is sudden and unexpected it raises more questions, and feelings of pain and anger are intensified.
The shock of a sudden death can make the grieving process all the more difficult, which is why it’s important to focus on your own mental wellbeing during this difficult time. You may be responsible for dependents and you want to help the rest of your family through this gut-wrenching period, but you shouldn’t neglect yourself either.
How To Cope with a Sudden Death In The Family
So, with this in mind, I’ve gathered some simple tips on how to cope with a sudden death in the family:
Before we begin, if your loved one was killed in an accident or an event that could have been avoided you should consider reaching out to a personal injury attorney. Click here for more information on the wrongful death statute for the state of Florida.
Don’t be afraid to seek help
If you’re struggling with your grief then it’s important you understand that you don’t have to face it alone. It’s normal to want to reach out to our family members during this time, but if they’re struggling with their own emotions or you don’t feel comfortable expressing yourself, then consider looking elsewhere.
A good friend, a colleague, or a grief counselor could provide the perfect outlet for your emotions. If you’re feeling suicidal or considering self-harm then seek help straight away.
Work through the stages of grief
You may not want to, but it’s a process we all have to go through at some point. Understanding the different stages of grief is important:
- Denial
- Anger
- Bargaining
- Depression
- Acceptance
Recognizing them and embracing them will help you through this time. Don’t try to suppress it, pushing these emotions away will only make it worse.
Understand the shock may delay your emotions
The sudden death of a loved one turns everything on its head and you could be dealing with the shock of no longer having that family member in your life. You may feel numb or feel as though you’re watching someone else’s life unfold. Again, this is totally normal. Just remember to prepare yourself for an ambush of grief and its upcoming stages.
Remember the world is still turning
You’re facing a harsh reality but you need to remember that the world is still turning. You could have children to care for, appointments to get them to, other relatives, and responsibilities on your plate. While it’s important to keep things moving and keep yourself occupied, don’t ignore those feelings of being overwhelmed. Ask for help if you need it. It is not a sign of weakness.
And finally, look after yourself
Self care is crucial at this point in your life. Even the little things such as taking a shower, brushing your hair, and getting dressed can help keep you moving and help you through your grief. Remember if at any point you’re struggling reach out for help from loved ones or medical professionals.