We all want to protect our young people from difficult experiences. Grief, however difficult, is a normal life experience. 

Grief is our natural response to losing someone.

For the first six months, at least, you may feel like it’s an emotional rollercoaster. The first year can bring with it all the missed anniversaries, Christmas, birthdays, all the usual celebrations etc. Even after a period of time, we can go through a short grieving period when we realise a loved one has missed a very special family occasion such as a graduation or a special sports match etc. so don’t be surprised that you find yourself reliving those same stages of grief again in the run-up to or on the day. This is perfectly normal reaction to have.

The most important thing to recognise is that everyone grieves differently. But if you understand the process that grief takes, give yourself time to grieve, understand your emotions, start to take care of yourself, and seek support, you can heal and life will get better again.

Remember that “normal grief” can vary greatly between people, and situations. Grief is a natural process, and does not always require treatment.