My partner passed away in early February 7 weeks after diagnosis. He had no symptoms and wasn’t ill. He went to hospital with severe back pains and was diagnosed with terminal cancer. The same week as he passed away my mum of 99 years passed away too. I think I’m still in shock by it all and I keep thinking I’m panicking over the slightest thing. Should I see a doctor (I don’t really want to start taking medication) thank you x
Dear Mrs D,
We are very sorry to hear about your partner’s sudden passing, followed so soon by your mum’s passing. Being in shock after two such significant losses is natural and very understandable. The events are still fairly recent.
It sounds like you are worried about the fact that you are reacting to seemingly small events with a strong emotion. Would you be comfortable sharing a little bit more about how this is affecting you at the moment?
In exceptional times like your bereavements it can help a lot to find support. This could be connecting with friends or family to meet for a cup of tea or have a chat on the phone, going for daily walks to connect with nature, sticking - as best one can - to a routine for meals and bedtime, or talking to someone who can listen and be there for you. Seeing your GP is also an option, as you say.
If you would like to know more about the ways in which Marie Curie can provide support and information, you could read the information about grief on the Marie Curie website (including information about bereavement support, which helped me greatly when I was recently bereaved): Marie Curie information about grief.
You are also welcome to call the Marie Curie support line (free) on 0800 090 2309, which is available 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm Saturday to Sunday and bank holidays. You will find a friendly person at the other end who can listen and point you in a direction that suits you for your next steps.
Finally, thank you so much for posting here. You are always welcome to respond to the thread. I hope that others who have been bereaved will reply to your post and share their experiences, too. Take good care,
Anke