Coping tips for when a friend dies suddenly. Helping a young person cope with the death of their friend

1. How To Cope When A Friend Dies
”Death is inevitable, unfortunately. It is one of the definite things in life. Nobody
likes to hear this but it's true”
Death hits all age groups: it is easier to accept death when an
elderly person dies. We feel that they have lived their lives and
their time has come.
The death of a person of any age group is distressing. The death
of a young person is terrible for everyone.
When death takes one of our friends from us, it is very hard to comprehend and believe
it. Long after the death we still expect to meet them on the street or anywhere. “WHY?”
is the big question that we all want answered.
We're used to having our friends around, chatting, joking, messing…. but when one is
missing there is a huge difference. Suddenly, one day they disappear from our lives and
nothing can justify it.
Feelings of grief, despair and anger set in. “What will we do without them?”
The Grieving Process
● Don't be afraid to show your emotions. If you feel like crying, cry.
● Respect others and their feelings. Some people will get over the death of a friend
or loved one quicker than others. We all grieve differently.
● It may help to write your emotions down on paper. This will allow you to free up
some space in your head.
● Don't feel bad to start laughing again after a friend has died. It is not wrong and
they would want you to be happy.
The Health Service Executive has set up a 24-hour support line for those
affected by the recent Donegal tragedy at: 087 2798412.
More information can be found on www.unwindyourmind.wordpress.com
This article has been taken from www.spunout.ie and all rights belong to them.