Someone I love has died – where can I find support?
Bereavement is the experience of losing someone important to us. Most people respond to this by grieving and mourning which is the process of going through a range of emotions including:
- Shock and numbness – this is usually the first reaction to loss, and people often talk about "being in a daze"
- Overwhelming sadness, with lots of crying
- Tiredness or exhaustion
- Anger – towards the person you've lost or the reason for your loss
- Guilt – for example, guilt about feeling angry, about something you said or did not say, or not being able to stop your loved one dying
These feelings may not be there all the time and powerful feelings may appear unexpectedly. It's not always easy to recognise when bereavement, grief or loss are the reason you're acting or feeling differently.
Stages of bereavement or grief
Some research suggests that we go through four stages of bereavement or grief:
- Accepting that your loss is real
- Experiencing the pain of grief
- Adjusting to life without the person, or thing you have lost
- Putting less emotional energy into grieving and putting it into something new
Where can I find support?
If these feelings are affecting your life, there is support available for you.
Mind Brent, Wandsworth and Westminster work closely with existing bereavement services to offer tailored support. Call: 020 7259 8100
Child Bereavement UK provides support for anyone who has lost a child, and for children themselves who are bereaved. Call: 0800 02 888 40
Anna Freud is a mental health charity working to support children and families. They provide general mental health services, and have specific support regarding child bereavement. The AFC Crisis Messenger text service provides free, 24/7 crisis support for young people across the UK. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis and need support, you can text AFC at 85258.
Winston’s Wish is a UK childhood bereavement charity supporting children and their families after the death of a parent or sibling. Call: 08088 020 021 or email: ask@winstonswish.org
Apart of Me is designed for those over 12 years old and is a game designed to help you cope with the death of a loved one. Based on psychological research, the app provides a safe virtual space.
For more information about where to find support, advice and assistance during this difficult time, you can read this resource created by Central London Community Healthcare NHS Trust.
