Coping with the Death of a Loved One

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Coping with Grief Over the Loss of A Loved One

IV.  Bereavement

  Bereavement may be defined as a type of emotional grief that occurs as a result of the loss of a friend or family member through death.

    Bereavement is a very personal experience that is unique to each individual.  Much like other traumatic life events, it does not follow any particular pattern or predictable time frame.  However, there are various thought processes and emotions that are consistently displayed by individuals experiencing bereavement.

Thought Processes  Denial, Reflection, Self Blame, Confusion, Bewilderment...

Emotions  Shock, Sadness, Anger, Anxiety, Relief, Guilt, Emptiness, Loss...

Please Note:  Denial sometimes makes a person appear as though they are a tower of strength, unaffected by their loss.  Their demeanor may appear selfless, supportive, and nurturing to others.  This does not mean that this individual will not experience the negative emotions associated with bereavement.  Most often this supportive competency is followed by a prolonged period of sadness and lament.

For more detailed information the following is a list of books and internet resources:

  • The Grief Recovery Handbook (1998) by John W. James and Russell Friedman
  • A Time to Grieve    by  Carol Staudacher
  • To Begin Again:  The Journey Toward Comfort, Strength, and Faith in Difficult Times   by Naome Levy
  • www.kapstonehouse.org  (Helping children cope with grief) 
  • www.compassionatefriends.org  (grief over the loss of a child)
  • Bereavement Books for Children
  • Help Me Say Good Bye:  Activities for Helping Kids Cope When a Special Person Dies  by Naomi Levy 
  • How it Feels When a Parent Dies   by Jill Krementz
  • Journey's End:  Death and Mourning    by Anita Gereri