Below are some tips to help yourself as well as others to deal with grief and loss:
Remember to ask for help if you need it; don’t be afraid to speak up and admit that you are struggling to cope with your loss.
Be honest with family and friends about how you are feeling and be open to accepting their help.
Allow yourself time to grieve your loss.
Talk with others who share a similar experience; joining a bereavement support group (in person or online) can be helpful.
Take care of your physical health; participate in regular exercise, eat healthy meals, limit alcohol use, attend medical check-ups etc.
Participate in enjoyable activities, hobbies and interests regularly.
Maintain normal sleep patterns.
Practice relaxation or mindfulness activities to help calm the mind and body.
Reflect on your religious or spiritual beliefs.
Helping someone else
Provide practical support, such as helping with funeral arrangements, assisting with housework and meal preparation, buying groceries etc.
Support the person emotionally; providing comfort and reassurance, talking about the person’s loss, listening with compassion, or sharing memories are important to the healing process.
Be a source of information support, such as financial advice, or helping the person understand how and/or why the loss occurred.
Do not just focus on the person’s loss; talk about everyday life, current affairs etc.
Check in with the person weeks, and even months, after the loss to show you still care.
Suggest that they speak to a professional if their grief does not seem to be lessening over time or they are struggling to function.