<< Back to Stepping StonesTraumatic grief generally occurs when a death is:
- Sudden, unexpected and/or violent
- Caused by actions of another person i.e. an accident, suicide or homicide.
- A natural disaster or catastrophe
- From natural causes with no prior history of illness i.e. heart attack, stroke.
Common words associates with sudden loss:
- Grief refers to the emotional and physical pain people feel after a loved one has died.
- Bereavement is the period of time following a loved ones death. The length of bereavement will vary from person to person. Your timetable of grief is very personal.
- Mourning refers to rituals such as funerals, wakes, memorial services, Shiva and other societal passages that people participate in after a death.
A traumatic or sudden death can deeply impact the world of the surviving family. It is a life-changing event. You may feel that the loss does not make sense or even feel real. There are going to be days when you will ask why and may want answers.
In the initial days and months after a death, you may experience feelings of numbness, sadness, anger, depression and will have a strong sense of disbelief. Many families that have talked about their experiences often share that:
- I feel as though I am going crazy
- I just keep thinking he is going to walk in the door after work.
- I know I heard her voice.
- I thought I saw her walking down the street.
All of these feelings and reactions are normal and common after a sudden and unprepared loss. There was prior preparation or warning and as a result you may begin to feel out of control. Although everyone experiences grief in different ways, the grieving process takes time and healing will happen gradually.
Often, families who have experienced a sudden death feel isolated and alone. Each person within your family may cope differently and therefore, you may feel as though no one understands. Having patience for and with one another is a gift. You may also be hesitant to seek support from others. Support is the key to helping families heal, cope with the loss, and eventually find hope again.
To request counseling services, please ask parents or guardians to contact the Stepping Stones Program (727) 523-3458