Siblings grow up together, sharing in all of childhood’s victories and confusion. For many people, this experience creates a lifelong bond. However, this closeness also makes the loss of a brother or sister extremely difficult. Below are a few tips for coping with this challenging experience, both before the funeral and after.

How to Grieve for a Lost Sibling

1. Share With Your Family

Losing a brother or sister can be emotionally painful, but a sibling’s grief is often overlooked. Although it’s tempting to make room for the feelings of your parents and your sibling’s spouse, you shouldn’t neglect your own emotions.

Talking through grief with your loved ones can bring the family closer together. Additionally, remembering that you have people to lean on and that your feelings are valid can help with handling this difficult experience.

2. Give Yourself Time

In the days leading up to the funeral, you may be in a state of emotional shock. However, there will likely be several feelings to process as time goes on.

Remember that grief doesn’t progress in a straight line. Some days can feel easy to handle, whereas the loss could feel fresh again at certain points. While dealing with this difficult period, give yourself time to heal and be patient with yourself.

3. Talk With People Outside Your Family

Although family members can provide valuable support, it can be hard to lean on someone dealing with their own grief. Turning to people who didn’t know the deceased can help relieve your emotional burden without increasing the pressure on those closest to you. Talk to a friend or close confidante, and consider speaking with a therapist. A counselor can provide the tools to process your feelings and make sense of your loss.

4. Honor Your Sibling’s Life

Honoring your sibling’s life and interests keeps their memory alive long after the funeral. There are various ways to accomplish this, from visiting their favorite place on their birthday to organizing a fundraiser. You could also purchase a commemorative bench in a park they loved or donate to an animal shelter if they loved pets. Regardless of what you choose to do,  this measure allows you to cope with the loss in a healthy manner.

For over a century, Shirley Brothers Mortuaries & Crematory has provided compassionate service to grieving families throughout Indianapolis, IN. Their caring funeral directors will guide you through every step of the process, helping you plan a memorial that honors the life you’ve lost. Visit their website to learn more about their facilities, or call (317) 897-9606 to schedule a tour for one of their funeral homes today.