Acts of violence on the scale of those that occured recently on the East Coast can be traumatizing for everyone, and those who are already grieving the death of someone dear may be particularly affected. The grief and bereavement services of Sutter VNA & Hospice are available to those who need support during this difficult time.

If you are grieving, or know someone who is, the following information may be helpful:

You may be feeling that your grief pales in relation to the immensity of this tragedy. Remember, though, that your experience is important. Whenever someone we love dies, our lives are changed in meaningful ways, and this cannot be diminished by any other event.

Sometimes we feel our grief more acutely when another stressful event is added on top of it. You may not feel any additional reaction as you process your feelings about this national trauma, or you may be noticing some increased feeling of shock, numbness, anxiety, irritability or sadness. All of these reactions are normal. In addition, people sometimes experience fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sleep disturbance.

Some things you can do to take care of yourself are:

1. Give yourself permission to feel your feelings and remind yourself that your reactions are normal.

2. Share your feelings with others. Ask for support.

3. Eat nourishing food, get enough rest, give yourself some exercise and be cautious about the use of substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and drugs.

4. Be gentle with yourself. Spend time with people that you care about and do things that you enjoy. Give yourself extra time to get where you're going.

5. Remember that you are under stress and that you may not react in the way you would normally expect.

6. Be kind to others. Sometimes nothing feels as good as helping another person.

7. If you care for children, allow them to ask questions and reassure them about their and your safety. Help them to feel comfortable by increasing physical contact and spending more time together.

In addition, we invite you to reach out to our Bereavement Program for individual or group support, or just to talk on the phone. We are always happy to hear from you.

The Bereavement Program Staff
Sutter VNA & Hospice

East Bay, (510) 450-8596

Contra Costa County,(925) 677-4250

San Mateo County, (650) 685-2821

Santa Rosa/Sonoma County,
(707) 542-5045

Sacramento/Davis, (916) 454-6536

Roseville, (916) 781-2666