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Lost Someone Close
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| FAST
FACTS |
- Feelings of
sadness can be normal, appropriate, and even necessary during
life's setbacks or losses. Prolonged feelings of sadness
should be addressed.
- Grief refers
to the emotions and feelings experienced after the loss
of a loved one, usually through death, but also from ending
a relationship. Sadness is a normal response to loss that
should not be prevented.
- Grief responses
will vary depending upon the circumstances associated with
the death. For example, if the deceased suffered from a
chronic illness, the death may have been anticipated, and
may even come as a relief from suffering. If the death was
accidental or violent, coming to a stage of acceptance may
take longer.
- Mourning is a
normal process that often takes as long as 18 months, however
prolonged depression may be present and should
be treated. Severity, duration, and the presence of other
symptoms are factors that distinguish ordinary sadness
from a depressive disorder. If signs of depression are apparent,
refer for treatment.
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| WHAT
TO DO |
- Get into a support, bereavement, or reminiscence group.
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| WHERE
TO GO |
- Catholic
Charities provides a resource for staff
training:
(216)
696-6525
- Cleveland
Department of Aging provides telephone reassurance and
case management at no charge as part of their "Caring
Program":
(216) 664-2833.
- Locate bereavement
groups which may include a senior center social worker, VNA hospice programs, Catholic
Charities, Regional Office on Aging, or local funeral home.
- Locate reminiscence
groups found at local hospital outreach centers or contact a social worker or
university student.
WEB
LINKS
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