The rituals surrounding death help ease the transition for those left behind, honouring the life that has passed. It’s important to take things at your own pace, allowing time to reflect and process your emotions.

Grief is complex, and everyone responds differently. Some may feel both relief and sadness, especially if their loved one had been unwell or frail. It’s natural to experience mixed emotions, and it’s important not to feel guilty if moments of happiness or relief arise. Remembering and sharing stories or happy memories about the person who has died can help, bringing comfort and keeping their memory alive.

For children, it’s especially important to talk openly about their loss. Sharing stories about a parent, sibling, or close relative can help keep the connection alive, offering comfort in difficult times.

Losing a child is often seen as one of the hardest losses, as it represents a loss of future potential. A parent arranging a child’s funeral feels particularly against the natural order. But grief doesn’t follow rules, and how we respond can surprise even ourselves.

There’s no “cure” for grief, but over time, many people find a sense of acceptance. While time may not heal all wounds, it can bring a gradual adjustment to life without the person we’ve lost.