Conclusion of HELP FOR THOSE WHO GRIEVE - What to Expect

Difficulty handling essential tasks. Recalls Ivan:  "After Eric's death we had to notify  not only relatives and friends but also others, such as his employer and his landlord.  There were also numerous legal documents to fill out.  Then we had to go through Eric's personal items. All of this required  focus at a time when we were fatigued mentally, physically, and emotionally." 

For some, however, the real challenge  comes later, when they need to handle matters that were previously handled by their loved one.  That was Tina's experience.  She explains:  "Timo had always cared for our banking and other business matters.  Now this became my responsibility, which only added to my already heightened levels of stress.  Could I really handle all of this without making a mess?' 

The above-mentioned challenges-emotional, mental, and physical-may paint a daunting picture of grief.  The reality is the pain following the loss of a loved one can be intense, but knowing this in advance may help recently bereaved ones to cope. Remember, too, not everyone experiences all of grief's potential effect.  Furthermore, there may be some comfort for bereaved ones in knowing that the intense feelings associated with grief are normal. 

Next time: HELP FOR THOSE WHO GRIEVE -WILL I EVER BE HAPPY AGAIN?

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