When you lose someone you knew or loved, it can be a really difficult time. Grief is an emotional response to loss and is a process that you may go through immediately or at a later point in your life.
You might be grieving because of:
You may feel angry, sad or depressed, or even guilty or relieved. The way you grieve might be influenced by your culture, beliefs, or how your family and community understand loss. There isn’t a right or wrong way to grieve. You might not feel anything for a while and experience delayed grief.
Some physical signs of grief include headaches, stomach aches, difficulty breathing, changes in sleep patterns and hyperactivity. You may also struggle to concentrate and not be able to think about anything else.
If you’re struggling to come to terms with loss, finding daily life hard and things don’t seem to be getting any better, it can help to talk to someone. Tell a trusted friend, family member or teacher how you’re feeling as they may be able to recommend some support for you.
There are lots of services that can provide support to you and your family. We have listed some below and there is more information in the guides, videos and download sections.
Grief Encouter have a helpline and online chat available 9am until 9pm Monday to Friday on 0808 802 0111
Greater Manchester Bereavement Service provide support for anyone living or working in Greater Manchester who is bereaved or affected by a death by any cause. You can call 0161 983 0902 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm excluding bank holidays) or email salccg.gm.bs@nhs.net
Winstons Wish have a helpline available to anyone up to 25 years old from 8am until 8pm Monday to Friday on 08088 020 021
Young Minds have provided a helpful guide to young people about coping with grief and loss
The NHS website has some useful information for young people experiencing a bereavement
Grief Encounter provide information to young adults about coping with grief and loss
The youth website of Cruse Bereavement. It is a safe place where you can learn how to cope with grief, and feel less alone
Young people talking about how it felt for them when they were bereaved and what they had found helpful and also unhelpful.
Child Bereavement UK produce a video with young people who talk about some of the difficulties and what helped them after the death of their mum or dad.
A video produced by Hope Again highlighting the different emotions explored through a number of young people’s personal journeys of grief and loss.
The Charlie Waller foundation have produced some tips for young people on when it’s time to talk about their mental health
How to support someone who has been bereaved and affected by suicide
Local information about services available to support your mental health
