What to Expect in The First 24 Hours of Losing a Loved One

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Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging things you’ll ever go through. It’s a time of total upheaval when everything you’ve ever known to be true and stable is suddenly upended. You may feel like you have no idea how to handle your grief or where to start. But here are some pointers from Dayton Ohio funeral homes for what you can expect in the first 24 hours after losing someone close to you:

First, it’s overwhelming

The initial shock and disbelief that follows the loss of a loved one can be overwhelming. You may feel like you’re in a daze, or that you’ve been sucker-punched. You may be so numb that you’re unable to fully process what’s happened yet. You may even find yourself wondering if it’s true.
You must know what to expect during this period, so you can take care of yourself and focus on your loved one as best you can.

During the first 24 hours after losing someone in your life, it’s common to experience:

Shock: This is an emotional response that involves disbelief, denial, or numbness. You may find yourself unable to accept what has happened.

Anger: You may feel angry about the loss of your loved one or with yourself for not being able to save them.

Guilt: You feel guilty for not spending more time with your loved one. You feel guilty for not doing enough to make them happy. You feel guilty for not saying the right thing at the right time. You feel guilty for not being there when they needed you most.

Bargaining: In this stage, you may try bargaining with God or another higher power in an attempt to bring your loved one back from the dead or change what happened.

Sadness/depression: You might frequently cry throughout the day or feel hopeless about ever feeling happy again. You might also struggle with insomnia because your mind won’t stop replaying memories of your loved one.

 

Tips to help you get through

The first 24 hours after you lose a loved one can be a very confusing and difficult time. We’ve put together some tips to help you get through this time as best as possible.

  • It’s okay to cry. Crying is a natural response to grief and shock, so let yourself do it! Crying helps relieve stress, making it easier for your body to cope with the emotional strain of this difficult time.
  • Reach out for support from family members and friends who understand what you’re going through right now. They can help comfort you during this difficult time by offering their love and compassion for your loss so that it doesn’t feel so isolating or lonely anymore.
  • Give yourself time. Don’t try to rush through the grieving process. It will take as long as it takes. Every person’s experience with grief is unique! Remember that it’s okay if you don’t feel ready yet. Just know that there will come a day when things start looking brighter again.
  • Take care of yourself physically by eating well and getting enough sleep at night so that your body can continue functioning properly during this difficult period in life.

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The first 24 hours after losing a loved one are often the most challenging. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and many people will support you through this difficult time. It’s also important to be kind to yourself. You don’t have to be strong, and you certainly don’t have to go through it alone. If you need someone to talk with, please reach out. Dayton Ohio funeral homes understand what you’re going through and would love to help in any way they can. Get more information of our services by contact us today!

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