The loss of a loved one is an undoubtedly challenging time, and everyone grieves in their own way. During this time of mourning, it is imperative to take care of your own mental health. If you're struggling to cope with your grief, or just need someone to talk to, rest assured that there are a number of support services and networks available to you.

Your Personal Support Network

During this time, it's important to reach out to your loved ones, especially if they are experiencing the same loss that you have. Checking in with your friends and family, if you can, can help to ease the burden of the grief that you are carrying by sharing your feelings, reminiscing on their life and remembering all of the wonderful memories of their life. It's important to remember that you are not alone, and that the people around you are willing to support you at this difficult time.

Professional Counselling Services

For more professional help and advice, counselling is an effective tool to work through your grief and find ways to cope. Reach out to your General Practitioner, as they can help you to find a specialty service that is convenient and appropriate for your needs, as well as helping you to obtain a Mental Health Care Plan if necessary.

Support Groups

In some circumstances, it can be helpful to meet with people who are experiencing similar situations to you to help you work through the bereavement process. The Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement can provide you with information to find support groups that are relevant to the particular situation that you are experiencing. There are also a number of online grief support groups, available internationally, including: Grief In Common, Grieving.com and Online Grief Support.

Online and Telephone Support Services

There are plenty of resources available to you, online and over the phone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. At any time, you can reach out and talk to a real person about your grief. Here are a few that are available to help you whenever you need them:

GriefLine listens, cares and supports people experiencing loss and grief, at any stage in life. Call 1300 845... , Midday to 3am AEST, 7 days a week.

Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14.

beyondblue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours / 7 days a week.

eheadspace provides mental health and wellbeing support, information and services to young people aged 12 to 25 years and their families. Call 1800 650... , 9am-1am AEST / 7 days a week.

MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online support and information service for Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours / 7 days a week.

MindSpot is a free telephone and online service for people with stress, worry, anxiety, low mood or depression. It provides online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression. MindSpot is not an emergency or instant response service. Call 1800 61 44 34 AEST, 8am-8pm (Mon-Fri), 8am-6pm (Sat).

Suicide Call Back Service provides 24/7 support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. Call 1300 659... .

Open Arms - Veterans and Families Counselling provides 24/7 free and confidential, nationwide counselling and support for war and service-related mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, sleep disturbance and anger. Call 1800 011... .

To explore ways to pay tribute to a loved one, click here.