How to Cope with Unexpected Loss

When bidding a good friend or family member goodbye after a mid-week rendezvous, you don’t expect “call me soon” or “see you next week” to be a final farewell. When that casual goodbye turns out to be the last, accepting your loved one’s sudden passing can be exceptionally hard. If someone you love has just passed away in an untimely manner, leaving you to cope with the loss and plan your loved one’s funeral , consider the following.

Remember that Grief Is Personal

Grief is a highly personal process. While in mourning, you will experience an array of strong emotions. It is important to remind yourself that this is natural, and you should allow yourself to feel these emotions. The stages of grief cannot be rushed or avoided, even if you know that your life will someday regain some semblance of normality.

Turn to People Who Care

Your friends and relatives care about you. If you feel like talking about your loss , confide in a close friend or family member. Your wellbeing is important to those who love you, and you should not be afraid to ask them for help when you feel overwhelmed.

Take Care of Yourself

Making an effort to stay physically healthy while you mourn will make your feelings much easier to cope with. Though sleeping problems and loss of appetite are common side effects of grief, it is important that you do your best to battle these effects. Try to eat healthy meals, drink water, and allow yourself to spend at least six or seven hours in bed every night.

If you are the next of kin of the individual whose loss you are mourning, you may also be responsible for planning a funeral during your time of grief. Serving the East Bay, Chapel of the Chimes Oakland can provide any funeral planning assistance you need. To speak with a caring, compassionate, and experienced funeral services provider during your time of need, call (510) 654-0123.