1. Notify employers.
Survivors should reach out to the employer of their loved one as soon as possible after their passing. This helps to ensure that any paperwork relating to benefits, salary, or retirement accounts is handled quickly and appropriately. In some cases, employers may have additional resources such as counseling services, support groups, or bereavement leave available to survivors.
2. Notify friends and family members.
It’s important to notify close family and friends of the passing right away. This can be done by sending out a notification or setting up a gathering either in person or virtually, depending on individual situations and preferences.
3. Make funeral arrangements.
Survivors should make all necessary arrangements for the funeral service, including choosing a location, arranging transport for attendees, and selecting speakers. Planning this ahead of time allows survivors to focus on their own grief without having to worry about details related to the service itself.
4. Process any medical or financial paperwork associated with the deceased.
All items relating to medical records, insurance policies, and bank accounts should be taken care of as soon as possible after the passing. This helps to ensure that any benefits or payments due are received in a timely manner.
5. Create a memorial service.
If desired, survivors can arrange for a special memorial service to honor their loved one’s life and legacy. This could include anything from sharing fond memories and stories to displaying treasured items or playing music that was important to them.
6. Gather treasured items left behind by the deceased.
Collecting any cherished items such as photographs, journals, clothes or even just small objects will allow survivors to hold on to the memory of their loved one in tangible ways.
7. Take care of your own well-being.
It is important that survivors take care of their own emotional, physical and spiritual well-being during this difficult time. This could include seeking out counseling services or support groups, engaging in activities that bring joy and comfort, taking breaks from tasks when needed, and allowing themselves to grieve.
8. Allow yourself time to grieve.
Processing the loss can take time, so it is important for survivors to be gentle with themselves throughout this process. Doing things such as talking about the deceased with friends and family members or participating in memorial services will help honor your loved one’s memory while also providing an outlet for grief.
9. Ensure important details are not forgotten.
Having a list of what needs to be done can help ensure important details are not forgotten during this difficult time. This could include going through medical records, sorting out financial accounts, and other tasks relating to the passing.
10. Honor your loved one’s memory in ways that matter most to you.
There are many ways to pay tribute to a deceased person. Survivors can create memorial books, donate items in their name or even just take time out of each day to remember them. Whatever it may be, finding a meaningful way to honor your loved one is an important part of coping with the loss.
11. Stay emotionally, financially, and logistically prepared for the grieving process.
It is important for survivors to stay aware of any legalities or paperwork related to their loved one’s death as well as any potential costs associated with the funeral and other arrangements. Stocking up on supplies such as tissues, and snacks or even just setting aside some money for any unexpected costs is a helpful way to stay prepared for what may come.
12. Connect with counseling services or support groups as needed.
Reaching out to qualified professionals or connecting with local support groups can provide survivors with a safe space to talk about their grief and connect with those who may be going through the same experience. These services are also valuable tools for learning more about the grieving process and finding helpful coping strategies. By taking proactive steps such as these, survivors can begin to heal in their own time.