Be persistent, but try not to press them to participate before they are ready. Pay Attention to Danger Signs. Signs that the grieving person is in distress might include weight loss, substance abuse, depression, prolonged sleep disorders, physical problems, talk about suicide, and lack of personal hygiene. Observing these signs may mean the grieving person needs professional help. You might also want to point out community resources that may be helpful.
Death can be a painful and permanent loss experience, and one of the hardest from which to recover.
Death takes away, but facing it and grieving can result in peace, new strengths and purpose. Additional copies of this brochure are available for sale through the NHO Store. This brochure was originally developed by the Hospice Council of Metropolitan Washington. Copyright 1996, National Hospice Organization, Arlington Virginia. All rights reserved.