Notifying Family & Friends
Notifying family and friends of the death of a loved one can be difficult and emotionally draining, especially if the death was unexpected.
It may seem a bit overwhelming to start this process; however, it’s important to note that you shouldn’t feel pressured to notify everyone immediately. Begin by making a list of people you’d like to contact. Reach out to close family and friends first, and then contact others who weren’t as close to your loved one.
You may want to enlist the help of others, especially if there are many people to notify.
Some people choose to announce the death of a loved one on social media. We recommend only doing so after having notified close family and friends, so they are not surprised or traumatized to read about the death on social media. Also, keep in mind that, while efficient, announcing a death on social media is less personal than making phone calls and speaking with people in person. You may feel more comforted when hearing the voice of someone who also cared for your loved one, and it may give you the opportunity to share stories and memories, something that doesn’t always happen in the comments section on social media. Social media may, however, be an appropriate vehicle for notifying people about funeral or memorial service arrangements.
In addition, a death notice or obituary in the local paper can be effective. Plus, often a death notice is seen by people who you or your loved one haven’t seen in a long time. You may be surprised by how many people from the past attend the service to pay their respects. Your funeral director can help you draft and place a death notice in local newspapers.
How you notify family and friends is of course a very personal decision. Regardless, make sure to take care of yourself. Staying hydrated and nourished, getting plenty of sleep, and taking breaks are all necessary to help you stay healthy, both physically and mentally.