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Grief is the natural response to loss, especially after a loved one has passed away. After a funeral or a memorial service, you may experience grief for a long period. During this emotional time, it’s crucial to cope with loss by using healthy mechanisms, such as the ones outlined below. 

How to Handle the Loss of a Loved One

1. Allow Yourself to Grieve

The stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. You may be in the initial stages right now, and you don't have to experience all of these stages to grieve. There is no blueprint for the process, but if you notice feeling shock and disbelief, guilt, sadness, fear, or anger, this is normal and healthy. Accepting these feelings will make it easier to identify and overcome them as you mourn the loss of your family member. 

2. Allow Your Emotions to Show

memorial serviceAlthough you may feel like you need to oppress your emotions around your family to show a strong demeanor, holding them in may make you feel heavy. It’s healthy to allow your emotions to show, whether it’s at the memorial service or at home. To help you navigate your feelings, write them down in a notebook. If you feel like you have unresolved feelings about the passing of your loved one, you can write them a letter to help bring you comfort and closure. 

3. Seek Support

Even when your family is around to talk to, you may still feel alone. If that is the case, go to a support group for people grieving the death of a loved one. Sharing your experiences with other people can aid in the healing process. Most of these support groups are at hospitals with licensed psychologists, so you can openly speak while getting grief counseling from a professional.

 

 

During your time of grief, Johnson-Kennedy Funeral Home will provide support during this difficult time. For over 100 years, they have arranged memorial services, funerals, and cremation planning for residents in Canandaigua, NY. They will work closely with you to arrange a service for your loved one that best honors their wishes. Call (585) 394-4280 to discuss your memorial service needs or visit their website to learn more about their services. 

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