The death of a loved one is a painful experience, and one that each person processes differently. Loss can trigger any number of emotions such as anger, sadness, relief, anxiety, and depression. These are all normal reactions and one may experience them in any order.
If you have lost someone close to you, whether to illness or because of a wrongful death that someone else caused, know what the grieving process after death may entail, and understand that your grief is a normal and natural reaction to loss. Though it may not seem like it at the time, and you may feel your sadness will never end, grief is the first step in healing.
Healing after a death is a gradual process. Just because one person seems to heal or feel better in a few weeks does not mean others should feel the same way. Some people may feel better in a few weeks. Others take months or longer. Be gentle with yourself. Accept that grieving is a natural part of healing and you cannot force yourself through the process.
Common Symptoms the Grieving Process after Death
The following is a list of symptoms people may experience following the loss of someone close to them. This list was compiled by Helpguide.org, a nonprofit resource that, in conjunction with Harvard Health Publications, provides mental health information. These are all normal symptoms in the grieving process after death.
You may experience some or all of these feelings after a death:
- Disbelief/Denial – A feeling of numbness or emotional shock, a sense that “this is not really happening.” Denial helps to protect from feeling extreme pain.
- Anger – During grief, one might feel angry that a loved one was taken away or that he or she could not prevent that person from dying.
- Guilt – A feeling that you may not have done all that was necessary to prevent the loss. Guilt can also result from unresolved conflicts you had with your loved one that you wish you had worked out while he or she was still alive.
- Sadness – A feeling of deep sorrow and/or inability to stop crying.
- Anxiety – Feeling discomfort about facing the future or fear of handling new situations.
- Depression – Feelings of isolation and hopelessness. You may withdraw from social situations.
- Relief – Feelings of relief can occur when loved ones have known for a long time that the loss would be coming.
- Physical symptoms can include difficulty sleeping and eating, lack of energy or restlessness, and lowered immune system.
Tips for Dealing with Death
One of the most important tools in dealing with the grieving process after death is finding support from others. Whether it comes from friends, family members, or support groups, connecting with other people will make your grief less overwhelming. You can look up grief support groups in your area online or in the telephone book. Connecting with others can help you heal.
Take time for yourself. Loss of a loved one and its associated grief are stressful on your mind and body. Take care of yourself by eating nutritious foods and fitting in exercise when you can.
If you are dealing with a wrongful death in Trenton, NJ that someone else caused, your attorney can help with the legal aspect of seeking financial damages from the responsible party. Call Cordisco & Saile LLC at 215-642-2335 or contact us online to set up a consultation.
