Bereavement Support
Although very important, the funeral is only the first step we take in ‘saying goodbye’.
The Grief Centre
Grief and Loss Support
Although the funeral is an important step in saying goodbye, it is only the beginning of the grieving process.
When someone close to you dies, life can change in many ways. Bereavement is a time of adjustment as you learn to live with those changes.
Grief is a natural response to loss. Everyone grieves differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Men and women may express grief in different ways, and people of different ages and cultures also experience grief uniquely.
Common Feelings During Grief
You may experience a wide range of emotions, including:
- Shock or numbness
- Anger
- Sadness, depression, or loneliness
- Resentment
- Guilt
- Confusion or forgetfulness
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Fear or panic
Grief can also affect you physically, particularly in the early weeks. You may feel exhausted, tense, shaky, or cold. Sleep and appetite can be disrupted. These reactions are common, but if you are concerned—especially if sleep deprivation or loss of appetite continues—please speak with your doctor.
How Long Does Grief Last?
Grief is not something you “get over,” nor does it follow a set series of stages. It is a deeply personal experience.
Over time, most people find ways to live with their loss. While the early weeks and months can feel overwhelming, grief usually becomes easier to manage. It is normal to feel the impact of your loss at different times throughout your life, with good days and harder days along the way.
Things That May Help
There are no rules for grieving, but some people find the following helpful:
- Talking and crying when you need to
- Writing or keeping a journal
- Creating a memory book or keepsake
- Listening to music
- Prayer or quiet reflection
- Sharing memories with others
- Gentle exercise
- Reading about grief and loss
- Accepting help from friends and family
- Talking with a counsellor or joining a bereavement support group
Bereavement Support Through Woolertons
Bereavement support is a complimentary service offered to families cared for by Woolertons’ Funeral Home and provided on their behalf by The Grief Centre.
A member of The Grief Centre Bereavement Support Team will contact you approximately four weeks after the funeral. Support can continue for up to a year, as little or as often as you wish.
Your bereavement support person is there to listen and can help arrange additional information, resources, or support if needed. Other family members may also benefit from this service—please feel free to mention this when contacted.
This support is part of Woolertons’ ongoing commitment to caring for families beyond the funeral.
Further Support and Resources
The Grief Centre
Phone: 09 418 1457
Website: www.griefcentre.org.nz
Support includes:
- Information and advice
- Phone support
- Counselling (in person, phone, or video)
- Bereavement support groups
24-Hour Support Services
Lifeline – 24-hour Telephone Counselling
Phone: 0800 543 354
Mental Health Crisis Team
Phone: 0800 611 116