REACHING OUT
We are so sorry for your loss.
Right now, everything may feel like a blur. Take a breath. We are here to guide you through these first hours with care and clarity.
Immediate Support
If you are in danger or feel overwhelmed right now, please reach out to these crisis services. They offer free, confidential, and compassionate support 24 hours a day.
Samaritans
Call 116 123
A 24/7 safe space for anyone who needs to talk about their feelings. Help is always available.
Shout
Text SHOUT to 85258
Free, confidential, 24/7 text support for when you are struggling to cope or are in crisis.
NHS 111
Dial 111
Contact for local mental health crisis mental services for urgent clinical guidance and help.
What you are feeling is normal
In the first hours and days after a loss, your mind might feel heavy or strangely empty. This 'brain fog' is a natural protective response to shock. It isn’t that you aren’t coping; it’s that your system is pacing itself to handle what has happened.
You may find it hard to focus on simple tasks or remember what people have just said. This is your 'grief brain' at work, prioritising survival over details. Be gentle with yourself as you navigate this disorientation.
Shock can show up as physical exhaustion, numbness, or even a sense of unreality. Every reaction you are experiencing right now is a normal response to an abnormal situation. You do not need to have all the answers yet.
Practical support
Immediate steps for the first 72 hours
01
Speak with the doctor or staff
If you are at home, call your GP. If you are in a hospital or hospice, the staff will guide you. They will help you with the medical paperwork needed.
02
Ask for help sharing the news
You do not have to make every call yourself. Ask a close friend to help tell others. This lets you focus on taking things one small moment at a time.
03
Register the death
In the UK, this is usually done within 5 days (8 in Scotland). Once you have the medical certificate, you can book an appointment with the registrar.
04
Look after your physical needs
Shock can make you forget to eat or drink. Try to sip water and have small snacks. Your rest is very important right now. Please be very kind to yourself.