Grieving after a disaster

The loss of loved ones in a disaster is a brutal and sudden aspect that can influence the intensity and duration of the grieving process. Grief can also be associated with other losses, such as the loss of accommodation, property, work, health, community and dreams. In addition to the pain caused by the losses suffered, many people must deal with constraints such as relocation, the coroner’s investigation and insurance. They need to respond to their own needs and the needs of loved ones, reorganize their daily lives, stay safe and take multiple steps to get back some semblance of a normal life.

The grieving process can vary from one person to the next. It may be influenced by the scope of losses suffered, past experiences, beliefs, values and the support available.

Consult the page Living grief better to understand common reactions in adults and children, the phases of bereavement and how to find help for overcoming the loss of a loved one.