Grief affects everyone differently. From how we react to the initial news to how long the grieving period lasts, it’s a deeply personal experience.
Our caring Funeral Directors have been helping families navigate grief for many years. Here, you’ll find their tips and advice on moving through it and how to support others who might be struggling.
This information is based on our interactions with grieving families and resources we have collected over the years.
When you're grieving, taking care of yourself might be the last thing on your mind. Everyone experiences loss and grief differently – some of us seek solitude, while others find comfort in company. Some throw themselves into staying busy, while others struggle to maintain their daily routine. Remember, there's no 'right way' to grieve.
While there's no set roadmap for navigating grief, there are some gentle ways you can support yourself through this difficult time. The ideas below may help you practice some much-needed self-care during grief.
One of the most important aspects of self-care when grieving is allowing yourself to talk about your feelings. Share your thoughts with a trusted friend, or write them down in a journal. Talking about what happened helps make the reality of the loss sink in, especially in those early days when everything feels surreal.
It's completely normal to feel out of sorts, unfocused and anxious about the changes ahead. Give yourself permission to 'not feel like yourself' for a while – it's an understandable response to loss, and an important part of self-care for grief.
Simple acts of physical self-care when grieving can provide comfort. You might like to try:
Be mindful of well-meaning people who tell you how you 'should' feel, encourage you to suppress your emotions, or insist you need to ‘be strong’. These impossible expectations don't align with what we know about healthy grieving. Part of self-care for grief is protecting yourself from unhelpful advice and choosing what works for you.
There will be unexpected reminders that trigger thoughts and emotions, making you feel as if you're back at the beginning of your grief journey. Remember that grief isn't linear – these ups and downs are natural, and acknowledging them is part of self-care when grieving.
One of the most powerful forms of self-care during grief is asking for help. There's absolutely no need to navigate this journey alone, and seeking support isn't a sign of weakness – it's a sign of strength. If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider reaching out to grief support services or counsellors who specialise in bereavement care.
These services can be helpful if you need to talk to someone, whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, need immediate support, or simply want a listening ear.
Call or chat with a counsellor. Beyond Blue offers free and confidential counselling, as well as online forums where you can connect and learn from others who know what you’re going through.
Call a counsellor on 1300 22 4636
Visit Beyond Blue
The Cancer Council offers free, confidential support for anyone affected by cancer. You can speak with volunteers for information, emotional support and practical guidance.
Phone: 13 11 20
Visit The Cancer Council Australia website
State and territory community services departments can help connect you with local support, including counselling services, financial assistance, and community-based programs. These services can be a helpful starting point if you’re not sure where to turn, or if you’re looking for support close to home.
You can find your local community services department by searching online for your state or territory government website, or by asking your GP or local council for guidance.
Support for young people, including online groups and a free and confidential social media platform. Kids Helpline also publishes helpful resources to help young people understand and navigate their emotions.
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Visit Kids Helpline
Free, digital psychological care for all Australians, including confidential assessments and treatments and access to qualified therapists.
Visit MindSpot
An online resource that provides further helpful information on grief and loss. In the exclusive video feature 'Coping with your grief' by Doris Zagdanski, the journey of grief is beautifully described, complemented with photography and music.
Free loss and grief support for all types of loss. Available by phone and online.
Call 13 000 GRIEF (13 000 47433) – Mon-Fri, 9:00am-5:00pm
One of the largest mutual support self-help bereavement organisations in the world, here to support parents, siblings and grandparents after the death of a child.
Information, advice and support services for after the loss of a baby or child, including a 24/7 Support Line and online chat.
Call 1300 308 307
Counselling, support groups and resources for people who have lost a loved one to suicide.
Your local White Lady funeral director can also be a source of support. With experience guiding families through loss every day, they can listen, answer questions, and help connect you with trusted grief support services in your area.
Grief can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it on your own. Taking small steps to care for yourself, and reaching out when you need support, can make this time feel a little more manageable. You don’t need to have all the answers — just focus on what feels possible today.
For nearly four decades, families have trusted White Lady to walk beside them. If you need us now, we are here.
