How Do People Respond to Death?
To understand the emotional needs of the survivors, it is helpful to have a better understanding of how people respond to death or the loss of someone they love. The typical response to a loss of this type is to evade the reality of the death. This is a normal, healthy response; otherwise, the stress would completely overwhelm them and not allow people to function at any level. The way most people reconcile a loss of this magnitude is to “dose” themselves by encountering the reality of the death over a period of time. A meaningful funeral experience is designed to create opportunities for families to encounter the reality of death in a safe and supportive way that allows them to more effectively process their grief.

How can I understand what the family is going through?
When someone dies, family members and other close friends will begin the journey through the grieving process. While each person’s journey is intensely personal, grief models can help you understand what bereaved individuals are experiencing.
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What should I say? What shouldn’t I say?
Most people have little idea about what to say to someone who has lost a loved one. You desperately want to support your friends or members of the community, but you hold back fearing that it might do more damage than good. Many times, just being there is a demonstration of your support.
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How can I show my support for someone who is grieving?
You may feel like you want to reach out and make the pain go away, but you’re not sure how to do it. Remember that you can’t push or pull people through their grief. But you can be there for them as they go through their journeys at their own pace.
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What should I do after the funeral ceremony ends?
Family, friends, and well wishers provide lots of comfort, love, and support during the time leading up to the funeral ceremony and immediately after. But what about painful reminders that come later in the grief process, such as birthdates, anniversaries, family holidays, and other special dates? Remember that grief doesn’t end when the ceremony ends and that individuals will need your ongoing support and understanding.
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If you would like additional ideas about supporting someone who has suffered a loss, or if you just want to discuss your feelings, please contact us today.

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Funeral Choices by Schoedinger is a licensed funeral operation with licensed funeral directors and trained professionals. If you want to make sure you’re making the most affordable, most meaningful, and most convenient choices for your loved one and your family, call us at (614) 539.4508 or email us at info@sfchoices.com today.