Breaking the News and Helping Them Cope

Getting  news of the death of a loved one is never easy. The United States Government takes special care when it has to announce a death of a military person. But, often the news of a death comes on the telephone. It is always a shock, even if the person had been ill and everyone knew that death was eminent.

Personality and temperament come into play, too. Some survivors are  stoic and called "strong."  Even when hurting, they are able to bear up and face the many things that have to be done. Others "fall apart." It would be preferable to be surrounded by a loving family or trusted friends when that kind of news come; but, life is not ideal.  Even so, after a loss it is important to have someone to lean on--family, church friends, a pastor, or other clergyman. Blessed is the religious family that has a sustaining hope.

Two things come into play here.  After the initial shock, life goes on. When children are involved, they deserve reassurance and comfort.  The grieving parent can not afford to neglect a child who needs to know that he/she will be cared for and loved. It may take a while to realize that the deceased one is not coming back; however, doing things to keep the memory of the loved one alive will help the family cope.

http://www.familygrieving.com/blog/2010/02/07/breaking-the-news-and-helping-them-cope.html