People can react in many different ways. Everyone is different and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. In the hours, days and weeks after a bereavement it’s quite normal and common to experience some of these different reactions.
What are ‘normal’ reactions to a bereavement?
Sadness – cry a lot and feel overwhelming sorrow.
Shock – feel dazed and have difficulty taking in what’s happening.
Numbness or show lack of emotions – feel unable to cry or put off strong emotions by keeping busy.
Helplessness – have difficulty coping and need lots of support.
Denial – feel disbelief like ‘it’s not really happening’.
Anger – want to blame someone or something.
Guilt – about things you did or didn’t do.
Relief – that your loved one isn’t suffering anymore.
Confusion – feel disorientated or forget things.
Anxiety – feel anxious and experience physical symptoms like dizziness and rapid heartbeat.
Fear – feel panicky and worry more.
Loneliness – feel low, lonely or empty sometimes.
Stress – find it harder to cope when things go wrong.