BEREAVEMENT
Most of us will experience bereavement and loss at some time in our lives. Grief expresses itself in many different ways, sometimes with powerful, frightening and confusing emotions. It is common for these feelings to ebb and flow over a long period of time, whilst those around us may feel "you should be coming to terms with it by now." Although no two people's experience will be the same, listed below are some of the common feelings, which you may experience whilst grieving.

Shocked disbelief
You may find yourself feeling very calm and rather detached. Conversely you may feel completely at sea. Both are perfectly normal reactions.

Being unable to accept the loss
This often involves what has been called searching behaviour. This means that at some level you are trying to deny that the death has occurred, and in so doing you might find yourself making mistakes, which can be worrying. For example, thinking that you have seen or heard the person who has died, or laying them a place at the table. You may even find yourself at odd moments of the day actually looking for them. Again, this is perfectly normal.

Anger and guilt
You may find yourself asking the question, why has this happened? And why has this happened to me? It is common to wish to find blame for it, in yourself, in others or even with the person who has died, and this can result in powerful feelings of anger and guilt (or sometimes both).

Despair and depression
There may be times when you lose interest in life and feel that there is no point going on. You may even question your own sanity. This, though painful, is a common reaction.

Reorganisation
Usually this occurs with the passage of time and, when the pain has eased somewhat, you may find yourself being able to remember without feeling so overwhelmed. This can be a time for you to begin life again, maybe to renew old interests or take up new pursuits. This may feel disloyal to the person who has died, however what has happened in the past is always a part of you and will not be affected by your enjoying the present, or planning for the future.

How you can help yourself
As well as going through many of the reactions outlined above, you may experience many other feelings, such as panic, relief, fear, self-pity. If you do experience these emotions you may feel you ought to hide them, but they are an important and necessary part of grieving and it can be of help to share them with a sympathetic listener. You may feel hurt, isolated and convinced that friends are avoiding you. Unfortunately this does happen due to the embarrassment of not knowing what to say. It may be up to you to take the first step and let others know you need them and their support.

There is a very understandable urge to avoid painful situations. It is sometimes very tempting to feel that life would be more bearable if you moved house, disposed of possessions or refused to see people. However, this can make things worse and such decisions must be given great thought. Bereavement is often a time of very painful emotions, but all of these emotions are a very necessary part of the grieving process.

It is not uncommon, as well as feeling mentally taxed, to feel physically run down: to find it difficult to eat, sleep and so on, but eventually these feelings should fade and disappear. Bereavement can also be a very isolating process when you may feel as if no one else could possibly understand what you are going through.

If you feel worried about any of your feelings or would simply like to talk with someone, do not hesitate to approach your GP or your local Bereavement Service.

Following a bereavement, many people find comfort from talking to, or confiding in someone outside their immediate circle of family or close friends. Some are voluntary community organisations; others are run by local councils or are attached to hospitals and hospices. You may also find comfort by talking to your local Parish Minister who will be able to offer help and advice.

Useful Links - www.griefjourney.com
Grief Journey is the website of Dr. Bill Webster, whose advice on coping with bereavement has given support and comfort to thousands of people. Dr. Bill has written numerous books and produced tapes and videos to provide support, not only after a death but also through the many challenges of life. Dr. Bill understands the grieving process, not just in theory but also from his personal experience. Walter H. Squires & Son trusts his advice will help you come to terms with your loss, and help you realise that the difficult times you may experience and the emotions you face are normal.