Bereavement
Bereavement is the experience of losing someone important to us. It's characterised by grief, which is the process and the range of emotions we go through when we experience a loss.
Recognising the characteristics of bereavement
Our customers may tell us about the loss of a spouse or family member.
Often a person experiencing loss will experience grief. It's a normal reaction and each person's experience is unique.
Some customers may experience the following reactions:
Emotional Reactions |
Behavioural Reactions |
Physiological Reactions |
| Forgetfulness | Shouting | Insomnia |
| Guilt | Crying | Body aches |
| Anger | Reckless or destructive actions | Loss of appetite |
| Self-pity | Withdrawal | Exhaustion |
| Feeling overwhelmed | Avoidance | Chest tightness |
| Loneliness | Risky behaviours | Lack of energy |
| Relief | Changes to eating habits | Inability to concentrate |
Some customers may need additional or different support during this period. For example, they may need support with:
- Making decisions
- Handling their finances
- Looking after themselves
- Emotional resilience
- Companionship