Coping with the Death of a Spouse

Losing your best friend, the mother or father of your children, your lover, and your life partner is one of the most painful events that you can conceivably endure. If your spouse has recently passed away and you are at a loss as to how to begin coping with your grief , the advice offered in this post may be of some assistance to you.

Nostalgia

Let Yourself Grieve
Grief is a natural phenomenon, and it manifests itself differently in everyone. There is no way of knowing how long the grieving process will last for you and what emotions you will experience. You just have to take each day and each new emotion as it comes, recognizing them for what they are. Trust that you will heal, but don’t short-change any of the emotions you feel or the hurdles you encounter on your journey through grief.

Turn to Your Support Network
Other family members and friends may not know how you feel, but they understand that you are going through a very difficult time and are willing to help in any way they can. If you feel like you need to talk about your thoughts and feelings as you grieve, turn to your closest friends. If you need any help around the house or with the kids, ask those closest to you, as they will be the most willing to help you in your time of need.

Seek Additional Help
The funeral home at which you are planning your spouse’s funeral may offer support groups and other grief support services. To share your experience with others who have also recently lost a partner, close friend, or family member, attend a support group meeting. If you feel suffocated by your emotions or entirely helpless and things are not looking up, schedule an appointment with a grief and loss counseling professional.

The days, weeks, and months following your spouse’s death are sure to be difficult. By working with a compassionate and knowledgeable funeral services provider to make his or her final arrangements, you will have the time you need to grieve in your own way even during the funeral planning process. To speak with an Oakland funeral home representative or learn about the  grief support services  available at Chapel of the Chimes Oakland, call (510) 654-0123.