UNDERSTANDING BEREAVEMENT

INTRODUCTION

Most of us at some time in our lives will be faced with the death of someone we care deeply about. Mourning is the process of adapting to that loss.

Unfortunately, in today's world, death is often hidden from our daily lives and talked about less freely, often leading people to be unprepared for coping with a bereavement when it happens to them.

We all react to bereavement in different ways, depending on our relationship with the deceased person, as well as other factors, but we need to grieve for those who have died in order to go on living.

Most reactions to a bereavement are quite normal. The more common reactions are listed for your information.:

The first few days. At first you may feel numb, strangely calm or detached or confused and unable to take in what has happened. During this time you may have difficulty believing that someone has died. It can be quite normal to think you have seen your loved one in a crowd or in their favorite chair. At this stage you may also feel unable to cry.

As time goes by. After the initial shock of a death you may feel that you no longer have a reason for living. Some people feel guilty for the things they have said or did or perhaps did not say or do. You may feel angry that the deceased person has been taken away from you. At this time you may have difficulty remembering simple things, feel helpless or afraid. A feeling of despair may arise and depression is very common. You may feel tired and unable to sleep, eat or concentrate properly. Some people also experience anxiety making them feel panicky and restless.

Beginning to live again. As time passes you may begin to have good hours and even days. In particular you may be able to remember something you once shared without feeling so sad. Gradually you will begin to take up new interests and resume old ones. At this time it is common to feel disloyal; however, remember the past will always be with you and there is a future that you can enjoy.

HELP WITH YOUR GRIEF

A bereavement is a painful experience. Some people get 'stuck' with their mourning. For example, long after a death, grieving is still intense or some people find themselves remaining very angry.

Whilst these situations need special help and advise, most people benefit from help and support through an organised Bereavement Support Group. No one can completely understand what another persons grief is like, however most people have experienced a similar situation. Speaking to someone who can empathise and listen is often a great help.

WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE?

If after reading this article you find it may be helpful to talk to someone about your feelings, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us.

Ask for Pat or Sally 01949 860303

A Bereavement Support Group meeting is held at Dove Cottage once a fortnight, on a Wednesday afternoon, giving people the opportunity to meet with other bereaved people for mutual support and comfort on a regular basis.

For details of the Bereavement Support Group please click here

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BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP

Group members are invited to attend for six months , or longer if necessary.

The meetings are organised and run by a qualified professional staff, supported by trained volunteers.

The meetings are supportive in nature; professional counselling is not undertaken.

The opportunity to move on to a friendship group is available to all those who attend.

What should I expect?

The meetings generally start with introductions if new members are present, followed by a discussion about the previous two weeks. Suggested topics are then discussed, either as a group or individually. The atmosphere is structured, yet informal and refreshments are provided.

How do I access the group?

Anyone is entitled to refer themselves, or a member of the multi-disciplinary care team may also make a referral, obviously with your consent.

Is there a charge involved?

No, all services provided by Dove Cottage are completely free of charge.

AIMS and OBJECTIVES please click here for details.

For further information please contact our Bereavement Support Co-ordinators                                          Pat or Sally on  01949 860303.

Click here to go to UNDERSTANDING BEREAVEMENT

AIM: To develop and facilitate a bereavement support group which can be accessible to relatives and friends of guests at Dove Cottage Day Hospice and individuals in the local community who may benefit from the service.

OBJECTIVES

1. To provide a support network that is local and accessible for individuals     affected by a bereavement.

2. To increase the physical and emotional well being of individuals affected by a     bereavement by reducing the stress/distress experienced.

3. To help indentify individuals who may be experiencing psychological/emotional     problems, such as anxiety or depression.

4. To reduce the effect that stress/distress can have on an individual's ability to     care for their basic needs e.g. eating well and looking after oneself.

5. To acknowledge the limitations of the group and refer on to specialist     counsellors or agencies if deemed necessary.

6. To offer bereavement support both to friends and relatives of previous guests     of Dove Cottage and also to individuals in the local community.

7. To ensure an individual's continuing needs are met once bereavement support is     no longer necessary.