does bereavement counselling help?

[JOLENE12]

I lost my darling mom 3 weeks back and am struggling to accept her death. My dad died 5 years ago, which was bad, but very sudden. I watched my mom die and i still have nightmares and can't sleep - hence i am still up now! my OH has said he can get me some counseeling through work.

[craft1948]

I think it helps some people so wouldn't rule it out. You can often say things to strangers that you can't to your nearest and dearest.

[MickeyTheBrick]

I tried counselling after my mum died but it didn't work for me. My best therapy was talking about her to people who knew her.

[JOLENE12]

feels a little "american" but i am strugglung so maybe i could do with some help.

[Jan1957]

I think you should try it if you are having problems. I didn't when my dad died and a year later came close to having a nervous breakdown and have now been on anti-depressants for years.

[JOLENE12]

not being a martyr but trying to support my younger sister, claim insurance, pay funeral costs, empty her house etc. Mom made me executor. sometimes i feel my out of touch with my own life and kids.

[JOLENE12]

i think i am going to. If i don't likeit i can always stop going.

[JOLENE12]

Taking one day at a time. Got a supportive OH who was golden when dad died. Feel guilty when sad all the time.

[JOLENE12]

I have immersed myself in the practicalities of mom's estate, sorting out my kids (she was my childminder!), she lived next door and i saw her every day. Thought it would be "easier" when i finished her house? but not so. I do think i need to "unload" my anger at her illness and sudden death without upsetting my family.

[JOLENE12]

Thanks for the replies. I am going to try sleep as i have work tomorrow. And arrange some counselling later.

[Kassee]

Take each day as it comes - things will become easier in time - time does heal. Keep a diary that might help - writing down your feelings - may help. There must be a club for bereavement - talking to others who have lost someone close to them. I found counselling very helpful - but it is not right for everybody - it was hard at the time to go to counselling - but in the long run it was very helpful for me to sort out my feelings and why I was feeling the way I was. After all those closest to us are the hardest to loose - so get all the help that you can coping with this. Good luck

[boxtops]

Three weeks is very recent, jolene - don't expect to get your head round it too quickly. Please do see your GP - it may be a bit early for counselling, but they will advice. Many surgeries have a contracted counsellor these days.