Finding Support After Death

The role of the palliative care team doesn't end when your loved one dies. The team's role is to continue to support you and help you through the grieving process. 

Accept Support 

If you need support, you must accept it if it's offered or ask for it if it's not. Needing support isn't a sign of weakness, it's a sign of accepting that you can't do this alone. And you don't have to. 

Finding the Support 

If you need more than your palliative team care can offer or you didn't have the services of such a team, there are places you can go. Start by asking the doctors or nurses who helped care for your loved one. They may be able to point you in the right direction. Call your local hospital or health clinic to see if they have grief support or know where you can find it. 

Mental health agencies can also provide you with information, as can the organizations of diseases, such as for cancer or HIV/AIDS. 

The Internet 

If you choose to use the Internet for support because of its 24 hour a day, 7 day a week availability, there are many sites that you can visit. Just keep in mind that it might be best to visit a moderated site, one that has someone in charge, watching what is going on. 

Also, remember that the Internet works both ways regarding anonymity. The people you are speaking with don't know you, but you don't know them either. Be particularly careful when talking to strangers about personal and identifiable issues. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous people who are willing to try to take advantage of people who are grieving and who are at their most vulnerable.