Grief is a natural and deeply personal response to loss. While the funeral often brings structure and support in the early days, many families find that grief becomes more present in the weeks and months that follow. This guide has been prepared to help Western Australian families understand the types of bereavement support available, when additional help may be needed, and where to access trusted professional care.

Mayfair Funeral Directors Perth provides compassionate funeral care and can assist families by directing them to qualified bereavement and mental health support services where appropriate.

Understanding Grief After a Loss

Grief affects people emotionally, physically and mentally. Some people experience intense sadness immediately, while others feel shock or numbness at first. It is common for grief to come in waves and to resurface during anniversaries, birthdays or quiet moments. There is no correct way to grieve and no fixed timeline.

Common Emotional and Physical Responses

People experiencing grief may notice changes in sleep, appetite, concentration and energy. Emotional responses may include sadness, guilt, anger, fear, loneliness or a sense of disbelief. Physical sensations such as chest tightness, fatigue and headaches are also common.

How Children Experience Grief

Children understand death differently depending on age and development. Young children may not understand permanence and may ask repeated questions. School aged children may show behaviour changes, anxiety or difficulty concentrating. Teenagers may withdraw, become irritable or struggle silently. Children benefit from age appropriate honesty, reassurance and stability.

When Additional Support May Be Helpful

Professional support may be helpful if grief begins to significantly interfere with daily life, relationships or work, if distress remains intense for many months, or if there are thoughts of self harm or hopelessness. Seeking help is a positive step and does not mean something is wrong.

Types of Bereavement Support Available in Western Australia

Support services include hospital based bereavement programs, community mental health services, registered psychologists, social workers, counsellors, helplines, online programs and group support. Some services are fully government funded, while others are supported through Medicare referrals.

Caring for Yourself During Grief

Gentle self care may include rest, nourishment, maintaining small routines, connecting with supportive people, and allowing yourself to talk about your loved one when ready. Major decisions are often best postponed where possible.

Supporting Pets After a Loss

Many veterinarians and animal behaviour specialists believe that pets may show signs of distress after the loss of a person or animal they were bonded with. Pets may become withdrawn, vocalise more, show changes in eating and sleeping, or appear unsettled. Maintaining routine, offering reassurance and seeking veterinary advice if health or behaviour changes significantly may help support pets through this period.

Role of Mayfair After the Funeral

While Mayfair does not provide grief counselling services, families are always welcome to contact us for guidance in locating appropriate professional support services.

References and Helpful Sources

WA Health Mental Health Services 

https://www.mentalhealth.wa.gov.au 

Mental Health Commission WA 

https://www.mhc.wa.gov.au 

Lifeline WA 

https://www.lifelinewa.org.au 

Beyond Blue 

https://www.beyondblue.org.au 

Griefline 

https://www.griefline.org.au 

Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement 

https://www.grief.org.au 

Pets and Grief Reference 

https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/pets-and-loss-can-pets-feel-grief