This is a collaborative post.
The loss of a loved one is always difficult. Grief is often accompanied by stress, sadness, confusion, and even anger. It can be a very emotional time. If the task of planning the funeral has fallen to you, there’s even more to think about and deal with, and unfortunately, there can also be financial implications to factor in. You want time to process your loss and to deal with your grief, but there’s plenty to do first. Your own health and wellbeing might not be your top consideration but failing to look after yourself can just make everything worse and mean that you struggle to deal with your loss, for a long time after the funeral. This can ultimately have a knock-on effect on the rest of your life. Here are some great tips to help you care for your mental health at this exceptionally difficult time.
Get the Right Help
Planning a funeral is never going to be fun, but it doesn’t have to be difficult either. Find the right funeral services and you’ll have someone to guide you every step of the way. Baldwin Brothers Funeral & Cremation Society offers convenient and empathetic help, supporting you with tough discussions and helping with financial matters to take the stress out of funeral planning. If your loved one had taken out burial insurance then this can also help to manage finances during this time, there’s nothing more devastating than to be to worrying about finances when we need to organise a funeral.
It’s not just professionals that can help either. Don’t be scared to ask your family and friends for help. Even those that didn’t know the person that you have lost may be able to offer you advice, help, and a shoulder to cry on when you need it.
Inject Positivity Where You Can
Don’t be scared to be happy. Don’t feel guilty when you laugh or smile. Try to make time to do things that make you happy and bring you joy. This might be a meal with friends, a long walk, a funny film or anything else. When thinking about the person that you’ve lost, or the plans for the funeral, try to find happy memories where you can, instead of dwelling on the loss.
Accept Sadness
You are going to be sad. Even when you are smiling, and remembering a happy time, there will be a feeling of loss and sadness. Don’t try to avoid this, it will only add to your stress. If you need to cry, let yourself.
Get Some Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to take time for yourself, process your emotions and boost your mental health. Even when you are busy, a quick yoga routine or a gentle walk can give you a boost.
Steer Clear of Drama
Unfortunately, family events tend to bring drama. There might be arguments about arrangements and future plans. Try to steer clear from this as much as you can, even if it means walking away, or turning your phone off for a little while.
It’s hard to put yourself first when you are dealing with grief, planning a funeral, and caring for other people. But, if you don’t take care of your mental health, you’ll find everything much harder.
