Although everyone’s personal reaction to bereavement is different, most people experience some of the following emotional responses when someone close to them dies:
- Disbelief and shock
- Anger and guilt
- Despair and longing
- Depression and loneliness
These emotions normally occur however, some or more of these responses may be experienced for differing lengths of time depending on the individual. The main initial response to death even if it was expected is disbelief, shock and anger. These may lessen over time and can be followed by a sense of guilt, depression anxiety and despair.
You may feel an acute sense of longing for the dead person, hopelessness at the thought that you will never see them again, loneliness and sadness at their loss and even a sense of relief that they are gone, especially if they were suffering .
Some of the physical symptoms experienced following bereavement can be acute and distressing. It is important to realise that these are normal parts of the grieving process and will pass in time. These include
- Loss of energy and interest in life
- Inability to sleep or constant tiredness
- Poor concentration and forgetfulness
- Loss of appetite or comfort eating
- Inability to cry or crying continuously
- Nausea/diarrhoea/headaches or unexplained aches and pains
Each person reacts differently to the loss of a loved one. It should get easier over time but when it begins to interfere with other healthy relationships or job more serious help is needed. If you feel you are still struggling Counselling/psychotherapy offers practical ways to slowly deal with loss, while still maintaining a healthy life.
Contact me on 0872210775 for an appointment or email info@dublin-therapy.com for further information.
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