My dad passed away last month very suddenly and unexpectedly (had no health issues other than some mobility constraints). I flew back to my hometown as soon as I got the news and knew I needed to support my mom through it all. I had my partner and sister as well, so that was nice support. We had to organize the funeral in a week and then I was able to take some time off to stay home and help with estate affairs, going through everything, selling the house etc. I flew back to where I currently live at the beginning of April and was approved for STD leave for 3 weeks and I’ve been experiencing the grief and this new way of life really tough. Im crying on a daily, not eating properly, find it hard to socialize in a big group setting and struggling to find purpose and enjoying anything I do. I’m going back to work tomorrow on a gradual return and I feel so anxious and overwhelmed with the thought of going back into a role that my past self used to enjoy and now I can’t. it’s a very client facing and being in back to back meetings type job. How did you cope with going back to work after bereavement? I’m not sure if I’m ready.
Edit: wow I’m shocked by the amount of people sharing their experiences and advice, it’s been really helpful reading through all the comments and also feels like I’m not totally alone in this. So thank you all for sharing a piece that is already so vulnerable to do