The violence of a car crash or the swift death caused by a heart attack
gives the individual no time to know what is happening. Even death that
occurs a day or two after an accident, operation, or acute illness is
too entangled with the treatment of the condition for the patient to
realize that he or she is dying. There is little time for the physician
to discuss the matter with the family, other than to warn them of the
possibility. The patient rarely suffers, but the family is left
unprepared and appalled by the disaster.
The family needs expert help from the physician, the nurses, and
the clergy. Medical help can soften the initial grief. The children and
relatives can help each other. The very fact that they are being
constructive produces an unexpected strength to cope with funeral
arrangements, lawyers, and the hospital. Friends and neighbors can help
the bereaved family in a practical way by helping with the shopping and
other domestic chores.
Adjusting to life after the sudden death of a loved one is
difficult. The surviving relative needs a chance to talk over the
death. The bereaved person may suffer from a feeling of guilt and needs
encouragement and support. Grief sometimes takes the form of anger
directed at the outside causes of death. The bereaved person is looking
for someone to blame for the disaster. This feeling passes as the
bereaved person's normal perspective on life returns, but it can be
alarming to the family and friends who are trying to help.
Acute and despairing grief is understandable and common after a
sudden death. As grief lessens, the support and care of the family and
friends can gradually be softened. The relative or friend can come to
terms with the situation as he or she would have been able to do had
the death been gradual and anticipated.
I am the owner and author of Hoodia Gordonii Side Effects. You can find the original article here: Sudden Death. If you'd like to read more of my articles, please visit my site!
