Should I Attend A Funeral? Four Ways To Overcome Funeral Anxiety.

‘Funeral’ fear is more common than you might think. The thought of going to a funeral can be extremely uncomfortable and overwhelming for a number of people and for a number of reasons. You may think that not attending at all would be the best solution to dealing with your anxieties and fears, but many people will regret not taking the opportunity to show their respects and say their final goodbyes to a loved one.

Funeral anxiety can stem from many different issues, including social anxiety which can make you feel uncomfortable when asked to deliver a eulogy or play another important role in the funeral. You may feel uncomfortable expressing your emotions around people that you haven’t seen for a long time. If you are struggling with anxiety and fear of an upcoming funerals we have four ways to cope…

BE HONEST ABOUT YOUR FEELINGS

Being honest about your feelings, emotions and anxieties brewing about the funeral is a great way to get family and friends to understand your hesitations to take part. Discussing your issues with those closest too you is a great way to actually get some perspective and take the stress away from the feelings you have been bottling up.

IT’S OKAY TO NOT BE OKAY

Something you have to remember is that, funerals are sad. You will find that everybody sitting at the funeral with you will be mourning and expressing their emotions in their own way. If you have to deliver a eulogy it’s important to remember that everybody will completely understand if you need to take pauses to deal with your emotions.

FIND SOMEONE YOU CAN RELY ON AND CONFIDE IN

Having somebody you can lean on in this difficult time can be really valuable when dealing with your fears and anxieties. Also they can be your support when you attend the funeral, and be a shoulder to cry on when you have emotional moments during the service.

SELF CARE

Most importantly, it’s imperative to recognise these emotions and be kind to yourself when dealing with them. Being mindful of your needs and your emotions will help with the anxieties and fears you may be experiencing and will help to relieve tension and stress you are feeling.