• be sensitive to people with special needs, such as people who been in abusive relationships or who are estranged from their families • acknowledge their sense of loss • give people the time they need to come to terms with their fears and confusion. WHEN TO ASK FOR HELP? In the process of being with and listening to someone who is dying, volunteers may learn that the person is dealing with emotional or other issues that are beyond their skills. For example, volunteers should consult with their supervisor if a dying person reveals: • a history of domestic violence • a history of substance abuse, including alcohol • that he or she wants to die and is planning how to do it (i.e. suicide, euthanasia) • signs of spiritual anger or distress (e.g. lashing out). Volunteers are not social workers and are not authorized to offer therapy. Whenever volunteers feel uneasy with the family dynamic or the emotions the dying person is expressing, they should talk to their supervisor who can ensure the person and family receive professional help from other qualified team members. 4. THE VOLUNTEER’S ATTITUDES AND BELIEFS ABOUT DEATH AND DYING What are your beliefs and attitudes towards death and dying? Do you see death as an ending or a new beginning? Is it sad or inevitable or both? Is it a tragedy or a fact of life? Like the person who is dying, your attitude toward death and dying will depend on your beliefs and practices, your values and experiences. It’s important to think about your own emotions about death, and how they may affect your reaction to the person’s way of coping with the emotional issues of death and dying. To help you understand how you feel and think about death, answer the questions on the next pages. Then discuss and reflect on your answers with your trainer and/or volunteer coordinator.
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