A DEATH in your immediate family or in your circle of friends is always difficult. You may feel many different emotions - shocked, upset, tearful or distressed. You may find it difficult to concentrate on tasks and to realise what has actually happened. You may even be angry or frightened. These experiences are particularly confusing and intense in the early days and weeks of a bereavement, and it is normal to have these feelings.

In Ireland, we have a long tradition of coming together in the days after a death to support each other. We all understand the various rituals that happen around a death, and they often provide comfort to the bereaved. These may involve a wake, a funeral, a burial or a cremation. There may be a gathering or meal after the funeral and, later, a month’s mind for immediate family and those especially close to the deceased.