There is no right or normal way to cope with the passing of a loved one and grief or to support someone who might be struggling to come to terms with the loss.
But there are many fantastic organisations and health professionals out there who can help you to understand your feelings and, in time, set you on a pathway to healing.
Before we share some south-east Queensland support networks and ways to look after yourself, we’re going to look at what grief is and the signs and stages you might experience.
*If you are feeling depressed and are unable to cope, talk to a mental health expert.
- Lifeline Australia – 1311 14, Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636
- In an emergency call 000
What Is Grief?
Grief is a human’s natural reaction following some kind of loss in their life. Often grieving this loss brings intense pain and heartache. It can be completely overwhelming and can temporarily impact your ability to function day-to-day.
We often think about grieving occurring after losing a loved one, but we can also experience it after a miscarriage, a pet’s death, a relationship breakdown or divorce, loss of a job or financial stability, and even during retirement.
Signs Of Grief
Grief looks different for everyone, but there are five stages of grief that are commonly discussed. As we all mourn differently, we may not all go through every stage, and they may not occur in this order.
- Denial often brings on feelings of shock and numbness
- Anger can be felt as the reality of the death sets in
- Bargaining can see those left behind wondering what they could have done to prevent the outcome
- Depression and signs of it include crying, confusion and loneliness. You may experience decreased appetite and sleep problems as a result.
- Acceptance occurs once you reach an understanding that what’s happened cannot be changed
Coping with Grief – Be Kind to Yourself
Emotional symptoms associated with grief are common in the short term, but you may need to seek help from a mental health professional if the feelings don’t subside over time.
During this overwhelming time, it’s important to take care of yourself and be kind to yourself. That means not only trying to exercise, eat and sleep well, but to accept that it takes time to heal and come to terms with loss – so don’t be too hard on yourself.
Other ways to take care of yourself might include returning to work and other hobbies you might have enjoyed previously.
Also, everyone has or will experience loss and grief at some point, which means there is always someone to talk to, including family members and friends who love you very much.
If you can’t find someone you’re comfortable discussing your feelings with, numerous support networks can help. We’ve shared a list below.
Local Loss and Greif Support Networks
Beyond Blue Ltd
- 1300 22 4636
- 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week
- Email https://www.beyondblue.org.au/
- Chat online 3 pm-midnight 7 days a week
Blue Care – Brisbane Bereavement Support
Blue Care Grief Recovery Program
Centacare – Family and Relationship Services
Centre of Human Potential (Psychology and Coaching)
Child’s Play Qld
Citizens Against Road Slaughter
Coronial Counselling Services
Karuna Hospice Services
Ozcare
SANDS – MIscarriage, stillbirth & newborn death support
- 24/7 Bereavement Support Line: 1300 308 307
- https://www.sands.org.au/
Solace
The Compassionate Friends Queensland Inc – Supporting family after a child dies
Young Widows and Widowers Support Group
Mens Information and Support Association
Standby Support After Suicide
Suicide Call Back – National Phone Service
Anton Brown Funerals is a family-owned, Queensland funeral company which was established in 1995.
Our Brisbane-based team of funeral directors are honest, professional, compassionate and understanding, and always put our clients and their needs first.
We go above and beyond to ensure your loved one’s funeral arrangements are tailored to their final wishes and can assist you with burials, cremations, coffins, floral arrangements, pre-planning and more.
If you need help organising a dignified funeral service, we are available to discuss arrangements 24/7, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to us today on (07) 3217 3088 or send us a message online here.
