Grief is difficult, but it is a necessary process that must be worked through to cope with the death of a loved one. One of the best ways to start the grieving and healing process is to arrange and/or attend a personalized, meaningful funeral. Funerals confirm that death has occurred and allow survivors to gather and share their grief while supporting each other emotionally. Changing times within funeral service also provide contemporary options for paying tribute to a life lived such as our VideoTributes, provided with every funeral.

No matter how uncomfortable or how much you think you don't need to, it is important to share tears and talk with others about grief. Grief professionals suggest expressing any anger, guilt or fears is critical to helping you through the stages of grief. This release helps you accept what has happened and work through your pain.

It is important for children to understand and accept the death as well. Families are often tempted to "protect" children by concealilng a death, but should not because the child may hear it from somewhere else and feel worse than if their family had told them. We offer literature, both books and booklets, on helping children cope with death.

Suggestions for helping you cope with grief include lightening a heavy schedule while grieving; finding time alone to put things in perspective; and taking care of physical needs by eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercise. Physical activity can help offset depression and provide an outlet for emotional energy as well.

While there is no timetable for grief, if you or a loved one are not coping well, you should consider asking a clergy person, doctor or funeral director to suggest a counselor. If nothing else, you may be relieved to discover that you/they are coping normally. We can offer referrals to support groups. Finally, remember in time, grief will diminish. While your loved one is not longer physically with you, they live on in your heart and in your memories.