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Assistance to the bereaved

How you can assist those who are bereaved.

‘People grieve deeply because they have loved deeply’.

  • Be sensitive to the need for privacy or quiet personal time, some people may struggle to participate in conversation.
  • Try to be at ease with silence.
  • Tears are a part of the grieving process and are not to be discouraged.
  • Be patient – It takes time, sometimes years, for grief to substantially subside.
  • When the bereaved person is speaking, give them your attention and understanding.
  • Listen and allow them to say what they need to say – be a good listener.
It is alright to speak about the person who has passed away.

We are all different and we grieve in different ways.

Reminiscing and speaking about a special time or memory helps to alleviate moments of grief or anxiety.

  • Avoid clichés, such as ‘You will be alright’ or ‘At least you have your family’ – this can feel meaningless at such a difficult time.
  • Practical support can be a wonderful gesture. Preparing a meal, shopping, collecting children from school or activities.
  • Remembering an important date, time or anniversary can be of great comfort and reassurance.
People who can help you through this time

Jonathan Hepner Funerals

We are here to help. We have a qualified staff member who is here to chat and listen if you need someone at any time during the grieving process. This could be immediately following a death or in a years time.

Hope Bereavement

Hope Bereavement Care Geelong provides free information, support and counselling to anyone who has experienced the sudden death of a loved one in the Geelong Region

Lifeline

Lifeline is a national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24-hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.

Mesothelioma.net

Mesothelioma.net has a wide variety of information about cancer patients coping with their diagnosis, as well as extensive therapeutic practices and habits that victims and families can get involved in to help with the grieving process.

Mesothelioma Grief Guide