For Caregivers

Grief Support

Grief is a process we all experience when we lose a loved one, even when we anticipate it. We all grieve in our own way, and on our own timeline. Most people progress through several phases of grief, including shock, numbness, depression, anger and guilt. You might have a difficult time eating, breathing or sleeping and may avoid other people. You might be forgetful, or have strange dreams. All of these and many other thoughts, feelings and behaviors are normal.

Though these thoughts and behaviors will pass, or fade, it's also normal to think that you'll never feel better. Grief (also called bereavement) support can be very helpful as you cope with these painful feelings and adapt to your loss. You can seek grief support through various avenues, such as local counselors, your place of worship and your local hospice. If your loved one was in a hospice program, a year of bereavement counseling usually is offered.

For more information on grief and bereavement support, visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization's patient Web site Caring Connections, the Web site of the Family Caregiver Alliance and the American Hospice Association's Web site.