Bereavement & loss

The loss of a loved one through separation, divorce or death can be a difficult life experience and can trigger a dip in your mental health. There is no right or wrong way to experience loss, or to grieve, and we can experience a wide range of emotions as we come to terms with a loss or bereavement.

Normal feelings can include:

• Shock – particularly if the loss is sudden or unexpected

• Longing for the person who is gone

• Anger

• Guilt

• Anxiety

• Sadness or depression.

It can help to have someone there to support you through your experience of loss or bereavement.  Supportive friends and/ or family members can be a great help but there is also a range of other supports available.

Support for bereavement and loss:

• Local supports
  A G.P. can be helpful to talk with about how you are feeling. He or she should be able to give you information about support services in your local area. You can also search for bereavement supports, and supports for family or relationship break-ups, in the Find services section.

• Support for children and young people
  Barnardos provides a Children's Bereavement Service for children and young people who have lost someone.

• Support for people bereaved by suicide
  Living Links and Pieta House provide support to people bereaved by suicide.

• Practical advice following a death by suicide
  The National Office for Suicide Prevention provides a booklet with practical advice for those coping with a death by suicide.