• Sleeplessness is common, so relax by reading, writing letters or a journal, knitting, and try to take naps in the day. • Start small with exercise - take a walk, or garden - and gradually gain momentum. • If you have symptoms of an illness or people are telling you to see a doctor, consult one - even if you feel it isn’t necessary. • Pamper yourself: sleep in, buy yourself something special. • Feel free to cry as tears are healing and help to lift burdens. EMOTIONAL HEALTH • Accept or ask for help. People usually want to help, but are unsure what to do. • Be aware that severe emotions are okay. • Make it known when you don’t want company. • Try to find someone who has been through a similar experience: they understand. • Don’t feel that you have to put up a brave front. • Numbness at first is normal. • Seek new and different relationships if needed, but at your own pace. Avoid trying to replace the lost person quickly. • Don’t feel guilty about feeling happy. • Take private time to get in touch with yourself and the changes in you. INTELLECTUAL HEALTH • Avoid hasty major life decisions within the first year. If this is necessary, seek advice from an impartial trusted source. • Don’t let others take control of your life. • Don’t idealize the dead person as this makes mourning difficult. Realize both their strengths and their weaknesses. • Temporary lapses of memory are normal. • Avoid losing yourself in work: you need relationships with family and friends. SPIRITUAL HEALTH • Personal faith can be a source of comfort, but maintaining faith can also be difficult. • Remember that it is okay to have a sense of humour.
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