While we know death is an inevitability, that doesn’t mean we’ll be ready when someone we care about passes away. The shock of losing a loved one, friend or colleague is often palpable, but when the loss is sudden and unexpected, it can feel much more disorienting. Whether the death was the result of an accident, workplace tragedy or sudden medical emergency, how a person passes can contribute significantly to feelings of grief and disbelief, making the situation more difficult to comprehend.
Whether you’re experiencing an unexpected loss, helping someone else through their grief or looking to provide group crisis support in a workplace setting—you’re not alone.
Keep these key tips in mind, and know that help is available if you need it.
Understand That Emotions are Unpredictable
You may have all received the same news in the same way, but that doesn’t mean your colleagues will have the same reactions as you. When it comes to hearing the news of someone’s death, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all reaction or grieving process. Being respectful of how others experience grief is important, no matter who you’ve lost.
In the case of a sudden loss, some people may need more time to process things and can experience delayed grief. While they may not react right away, it doesn’t mean they won’t or that they’re not feeling the loss as deeply as someone who experiences their grief immediately.
Give Grace to Yourself and Others
If you’re the one working through a loss, be patient with yourself as you come to terms with it. Mourning takes time—there will be good days and bad, and it’s okay to feel like the process is moving at a one step forward, two steps back pace.
If you’re able to support someone else through their grief, be compassionate by providing them with a safe place to express their feelings—no matter what they are. Be present to show your support is available when and where they need it. Practice active listening, and don’t focus too much on saying the right thing. Most often, people just appreciate knowing they have someone to share their emotions with, without judgement.
Keep Grief in Check
It’s natural for people to need time to heal and come to terms with a significant loss. However, if grief stagnates or is left unchecked, it can take on a life of its own. Understanding grief in its many forms and getting familiar with healthy coping strategies will prepare you to recognize and take steps to address complicated, persistent grief—in yourself or others—before it becomes all-consuming.
Lean on Available Supports
Knowing when to reach out for support is vital to ensuring appropriate care is received. Not sure where to turn? Help is closer than you think, in the form of:
- Friends, family and colleagues. Finding solace in those closest to you can offer a level of comfort and ease in the initial phases of grief, especially when you’re experiencing a loss together.
- Workplace supports. If you have access to mental health supports through Arcora, this is a great option for when you need extra help. You can receive confidential, individual care from professionals specializing in grief counselling and be connected to other helpful resources, no matter the phase of grief you’re in. If you’re an employer looking to support your staff in the immediate aftermath of a workplace tragedy, we also offer Critical Incident Stress Debriefing. This group intervention is designed to guide employees through healthy coping strategies, mitigating the short- and long-term impacts of any traumatic event impacting a workplace.
- Community resources. Many cities offer a variety of in-person, group grief counselling sessions to help people deal with their emotions in a more collaborative and community-based setting. These groups are often free of charge and can offer anonymous support where some people may feel more comfortable sharing what they’re experiencing. Check your local health authority, community centres, churches and services like 211 to see what might be available in your area.
Remember, you’re never alone, and if you find yourself in need of assistance, we’re here to help.
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