According to Mental Health America, the death of a loved one, especially a parent, can be one of the most stressful and traumatic experiences an individual can experience. Many people experience a profound sense of shock after such a loss, and over a period of time, individuals will eventually experience strong feelings of despair, anger, and even depression or anxiety. It's important that individuals and families experiencing such a loss learn about aspects of grieving and how to best support themselves and loved ones through the process.
Features of Grief
Sources at Helpguide.org note that grief often results in a period of marked physical and emotional stress. Individuals might experience sleep disturbances and changes in appetite. People often find it difficult to focus on normal daily routines and might not be able to perform routine tasks to their best ability. Grief might also result in extreme emotions, resulting in frequent crying spells or marked irritability.
Time Frame
Some individuals might experience extended periods of grief lasting well over a year, especially if the loss was unexpected or caused by a traumatic event. Individuals often feel the need to talk about the event and remember the deceased. Over the course of six months to a year, the loss will gradually be integrated into the person's life, and they will begin to consider a future without the person.
Supporting a Loved One
Experts at Helpguide.org note that family members and friends can support a grieving individual by offering assistance with practical tasks, such as cleaning, cooking, child care, or shopping. During the first days after the death, an individual might need help with these tasks. Family members and friends should also be willing to listen to the individual's thoughts and feelings regarding the death. Offering to do activities such as taking a walk or going out to dinner are excellent ways to help the individual slowly return to daily routines.
Professional Support
Sources at Mental Health America note that many individuals who suffer the loss of a parent or close loved one may benefit from professional grief counseling. A counselor can offer an unbiased, confidential source of support for an individual struggling with a loss. Peer support groups are also an excellent source of information and fellowship during the grieving process.
Expert Insight
Helpguide.org notes that friends and family members should be aware that the grieving process is not always the same for every individual. Some people who have integrated the death might go through periods of intense grief during specific holidays or anniversaries. People providing support should be prepared to spend time with the individual and offer extra care during potentially difficult periods.
