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Understanding grief

Spiritual or philosophical changes: Some people might question their faith, their beliefs, or the meaning of life following a loss. This is normal and can be part of the grieving process.

Treatment and Support

Grieving can be challenging, and everyone’s journey is unique. The way a person copes with grief can depend on their personality, the type of loss, and their support network.

In time, most people find ways to adjust and heal, but for some, the pain can last longer. If you feel stuck, it’s important to seek support. Talking to a professional can help.

Supportive treatment options include:

Grief is a natural response to loss. It can affect us in many ways—physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually.

Grief may be triggered by many different types of loss, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, losing a sense of safety or stability, facing a disability, or losing your home or community due to a disaster. Grief can also begin before a loss, such as when someone you love is seriously ill. This is called ‘anticipatory grief.’

Everyone experiences grief differently. Some people may find it helpful to talk about their feelings, while others may prefer to be alone. How long and how strongly someone feels grief can vary, but for most people, it can take weeks or even months for the feelings to ease.

Symptoms of Grief

Grief affects people in different ways. Some common reactions include:

Supportive treatments include

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Supportive treatments include 〰️

  • This helps people work through difficult thoughts and behaviours related to grief.

  • This teaches you how to manage your feelings, without avoiding or struggling against them.

  • This focuses on helping you reconnect with life and relationships after a loss.

  • For some, strengthening family connections and improving communication can help prevent further distress.

    • Sadness or sorrow

    • Anger

    • Guilt or regret

    • Anxiety or worry

    • Loneliness

    • Feeling helpless

    • Shock or disbelief

    • Yearning for the person lost

    • Relief (especially if the loss was long or painful)

    • Confusion or forgetfulness

    • Difficulty concentrating

    • Thoughts constantly focused on the loss

    • Losing interest in things that once brought joy

    • Intense dreams or nightmares

    • Tiredness or low energy

    • Trouble sleeping or staying asleep

    • Social withdrawal, avoiding people or places that remind you of the loss

    • Changes in appetite

    • Crying or feeling restless

    • Treasuring items that remind you of the person or the loss

    • Feeling disconnected from your community

Tips for Coping with Grief

Looking after yourself

  • Join cultural or community rituals such as funerals or remembrance services, if that feels right for you. These can be comforting and help with healing.

  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to your family and friends about how you’re feeling, and accept their support.

  • Take time to grieve—there is no right or wrong way to feel.

  • Seek support from others who understand. Bereavement groups, either in person or online, can be helpful.

  • Take care of your health—eat well, exercise, and visit your doctor when needed.

  • Engage in activities you enjoy. Hobbies, interests, or time spent with others can help you feel better.

  • Try to keep a regular sleep pattern, as rest is essential for healing.

  • Practice relaxation or mindfulness to calm your mind and body.

  • Reflect on your spiritual or religious beliefs if this helps you.

Supporting someone else

  • Offer practical help, like organising funeral arrangements or preparing meals.

  • Provide emotional comfort by listening, talking, and sharing memories.

  • Help them find professional support if needed, such as financial advice or counselling.

  • Check in regularly, even after the initial weeks or months, to show you care.

  • Be patient—grief can last longer than expected, and some people need more time to heal.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief and it feels overwhelming or like it’s not getting better, it may be time to speak to a professional. With the right support, people can manage their grief and go on to live fulfilling lives. Speak to a doctor, a mental health professional, or a support organisation to get the help you need.

We Are Here to Support You

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, including grief, it’s important to seek help. With the right treatment and support, individuals can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Reach out to mental health professionals, your GP, or our organisation for more information and support. We are here to support the Tamil community in discussing mental health openly and finding the tools to help and support each other.

Remember you are not alone.

Share this resource with your friends and family and help raise awareness about mental health in the Tamil community. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels comfortable talking about mental health.