Written by a clinical psychologist specializing in grief trauma, this empathetic guide provides advice for family and friends supporting someone after the death of a loved one.
Watching a friend or family member experience a life-changing loss can be heartbreaking. And often we don’t know how best to help.
In this empathetic and highly practical book, clinical psychologist Dr Emma Cotterill includes her lived experience – and that of others – to provide readers with a valuable blend of both real-life and clinical advice.
Dr Cotterill first helps you understand what grief can look like and the psychology that underpins the human experience of loss. She then helps you navigate how best to help: from providing emotional and practical support, to knowing what to say – and what not to say. Dr Cotterill also recognizes the emotional toll that accompanies supporting someone through their grief, and gives strategies to ensure you look after yourself.
Part 1: Understanding grief and loss and what the experiences is like for the grieving person
Understanding grief and loss – theory and education
What grief can look like – in the short and long term
Practical consequences of dealing with grief and loss ("grief admin")
Challenges of living with grief for the person grieving / the hidden aspects of grief
Misunderstanding of what grief looks like and individual differences in this
When grief becomes intertwined with mental health difficulties (depression, anxiety, trauma, etc.)
Part 2: How to help someone through grief and loss
Practical help
Emotional support
Communication and staying in touch
Individual differences in support needed
How to talk about the person who has died
What not to say – unhelpful platitudes
How to remember the person who has died
How to keep showing up
The burden of being present in someone else's grief when it isn't changing
Considering risk: what to do if your loved one is experiencing suicidal ideation
Part 3: How to support yourself when supporting someone else
Recognizing the emotional toll of being around others' grief
How to take care of yourself if you are grieving too
Self-care
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