Bereavement
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Bereavement is the experience of losing someone important to us. It is characterised by grief, which is the process and the range of emotions we go through when we experience a loss.
Bereavement affects everyone in different ways, and it is possible to experience any range of emotions. You may feel lots of different emotions at the same time, or your feelings may change quickly. Your feelings may also be confusing at times, and it is not always easy to recognise when bereavement, grief or loss are the reason you are acting or feeling differently.
There is no right or wrong way to feel.
As well as bereavement, there are other types of loss such as the end of a relationship or losing a job or home.
Common symptoms
Some of the most common symptoms include:
- shock and numbness – this is usually the first reaction to loss, and people often talk about "being in a daze"
- overwhelming sadness
- tiredness or exhaustion
- anger towards the person you've lost or the reason for your loss
- guilt – for example, guilt about feeling angry, about something you said or did not say, or not being able to stop your loved one dying
Guidance and support
- Try talking about your feelings to a friend, family member, health professional or counsellor. You could also contact a bereavement support organisation such as or phone: 0808 808 1677.
- If you are struggling to sleep, .
- Think about peer support, where people use their experiences to help each other. .
- Listen to .
- Try the . These are simple lifestyle changes to help you feel more in control and able to cope.
Page last updated: 1 December 2025