Dealing with the impending death of a loved one is extremely painful and traumatic. Coming to terms with the coming loss may seem next to impossible, especially if you have to deal with serious responsibilities like choosing a burial casket and making funeral arrangements at the same time. Here are some suggestions that may be helpful.

How to Deal With Anticipatory Grief

1. Turn to Others for Support

It’s important to lean on your closest family and friends for support. Your loved ones are there to listen when you want to vent your feelings, provide a shoulder when you need to cry, and simply sit in silence when you don’t know what to say. These are all natural reactions that can be overwhelming when you face the prospect of deep grief. Sharing your burden with someone else can lift a small weight from your heart. They may also be able to provide you with some assistance in making funeral arrangements if you are distraught.

2. Understand What to Expect

Sometimes, simply having a better understanding of what to expect in your loved one’s final days can be helpful. There’s no way to prepare yourself for your reactions but knowing what to anticipate in advance may gently ready you. Take the time to speak with your loved one’s doctor or caregiver for more information about their condition and symptoms, if any are present. It may help you feel more in control in a situation that is difficult to navigate.

3. Remember the Special Times

No amount of information or preparation in the world will ever truly be enough. For that reason, it’s important to remember the special moments that you and your loved one shared over the years. Think about what makes them so important to your life and how you might share those traits as you make funeral arrangements or plan a memorial service. Sit with the person, hold their hand, stroke their forehead, and let them know of your presence. You don’t have to say the “right” words—you simply need to allow yourself this vital time with someone who means so much to you.

4. Be Honest With Kids

Dealing with death at any age is difficult, but for children, it may be especially hard to comprehend the sudden disappearance of a person they’re accustomed to seeing every day. Allow kids to ask questions and answer them as honestly as you can. Make sure they know that you’re there to help them. Your presence alone may be the most comforting gift you can give as they learn about this difficult subject.

The compassionate staff at Neidhard-Minges Funeral Home in Cincinnati, OH, understands just how important it is to honor your loved one’s life with dignity. Offering more than 100 years of experience, they can assist you in making funeral arrangements, selecting a burial casket, or planning a memorial service. The funeral home is also committed to helping you through this difficult time, which is why they offer a variety of resources designed to help you handle your grief. You can visit the website for information, or call (513) 661-3022.