When you or a loved one receive the news of a terminal illness, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. Processing such information can be a very emotionally challenging time, and the road ahead may feel uncertain.
This guide aims to provide support during this difficult time, offering compassionate advice on managing your emotions, discussing end-of-life topics, and making important decisions.
Coming to terms with a terminal illness is deeply personal and can evoke a complex mix of emotions. Whether it’s shock, fear, sadness, or confusion, these feelings are all completely valid. You may find yourself moving between different stages of acceptance as you try to process what’s happening.
It's important to acknowledge your emotions without judgement. Sometimes, the first step in coping is simply recognising what you’re feeling and sitting with it. Everyone reacts differently — some may go into shock and need time to fully absorb the news, some may cry or feel numb, while others may feel the need to talk, or take immediate action.
There is no right or wrong way to react when your doctor breaks the news. It’s important to allow yourself the space and time to feel what you need to feel, whether that be alone, or with your family, friends and loved ones.
For more detailed guidance, you can explore Cancer Research UK’s advice on processing the initial shock of receiving a terminal diagnosis.
Anticipatory grief is the deep sense of loss you or your loved ones may feel, knowing that death is approaching.
After the diagnosis of a serious illness, both the individual and their loved ones often begin grieving long before the illness becomes terminal.
The loss of independence, a sense of security, diminished abilities, and altered hopes for the future are just a few of the painful realities that many must confront.
Whether you're dealing with your own terminal diagnosis or the illness of someone close, this form of grief can bring up a range of emotions, including:
It's important to understand that the emotions associated with anticipatory grief are a normal part of the process, and to allow yourself to experience these emotions without guilt or shame.
Sharing how you feel with others who are also affected can bring comfort and create a sense of unity during a difficult time. You can also find more resources on anticipating a death and ways to cope with these feelings.
Talking about death can be difficult, but it’s a crucial part of coping with terminal illness. It can help you, your loved ones, and even healthcare professionals better understand your wishes and provide the necessary support. Open conversations about death, however painful, can foster understanding and emotional closeness.
Having honest discussions with your family and friends is essential. These conversations offer an opportunity to express your emotions, share memories, and talk about your wishes. You may want to discuss:
Introducing the idea of funeral plans can be a helpful way to relieve some of the burden from your loved ones. This could include a discussion about the kind of farewell you want, from a cremation to a more traditional service. Speaking about these things in advance ensures that your wishes are understood and respected, and that your loved ones are protected from the stress of arranging a funeral later down the line.
Connecting with others who are going through a similar experience can be incredibly healing. Support groups provide a safe space to share your feelings, receive comfort, and learn from others. Many people find strength in the solidarity that comes from speaking to those who truly understand what they’re going through.
There are numerous support groups available across the UK, both in person and online. Whether you’re looking for emotional support or advice, these communities can help you feel less alone.
Sometimes, professional help is needed to navigate the complex emotions of terminal illness. A trained counsellor can offer a non-judgmental space to express your thoughts and feelings, helping you process your emotions in a healthy way.
Counselling can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with anxiety, depression, or grief, to help you manage your emotions safely.
You may consider reaching out to the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (UK) or COSCA (Scotland), both of which offer access to trained professionals who specialise in grief and end-of-life counselling.
As difficult as it may be, making decisions about the end of life can provide a sense of control and comfort. It ensures that your preferences are respected and that your loved ones are aware of your wishes.
Hospice care provides compassionate support for individuals nearing the end of life, focusing on comfort rather than cure. If this is something you are considering, hospice care teams can offer medical, emotional, and spiritual care for both you and your family, helping to ease the journey ahead.
According to the NHS website, hospice care is provided free of charge, funded through a combination of NHS support and public donations. While you can reach out to a hospice directly, the team will typically request a referral from your doctor or nurse as well.
One of the most significant end-of-life decisions is planning your funeral. By making these arrangements in advance, you can ensure your wishes are met while easing the burden on your loved ones. There are a number of viable options, but, first, you may want to consider:
Funeral plans can also help cover the financial costs of a funeral, providing peace of mind that your loved ones won’t face unexpected expenses at such a difficult time.
At Distinct Cremations, our affordable funeral plans cover a range of services, including collection, care at the mortuary, cremation (with all fees included), a coffin, a simple ashes container, and more.
The most economical option is our direct cremation plan, though we also offer budget-friendly plans for those who prefer an attended cremation with an unrestricted number of attendees.
You can choose to pay in full, with a debit card, credit card, or cheque. Alternatively, flexible monthly payment options are available over 1, 5, or 10 years, providing an affordable solution if paying the full amount upfront isn’t manageable.
Sorting out financial matters is another essential aspect of preparing for the future. This may involve organising your assets, settling any outstanding debts, or making decisions about how your estate will be handled after your passing.
Speaking with a financial advisor can help you get these affairs in order and ensure your loved ones are taken care of for years to come.
Having all your important documents in one place can make it easier for your loved ones to manage after your passing. These documents might include your:
Make sure to communicate where these documents are stored, so that they can be accessed when needed. You can find further advice on funeral documents here with Distinct Cremations.
Dealing with a terminal illness is one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. While it’s not easy, taking steps to process your emotions, speak openly with loved ones, and plan for the future can bring a sense of peace during this difficult time.
Remember, you don’t have to face it alone — support is available to help you every step of the way. Request a free guide to our funeral services for more information, or contact one of our friendly team.
Hymns can be uplifting, tear-jerking, or somewhere in the middle, but they always move you emotionally in a way few things can. Below we've collated the most beautiful funeral hymns for Mum, Dad or anybody at all.
Funeral hymns
A funeral poem can be uplifting, tear-jerking or unlock a range of emotions at once. Poems can provide comfort at the most difficult time by allowing you to express your feelings or describe your loved one as they were in life.
Funeral poems
When finding the right words to say goodbye is hard, a funeral reading may make it easier to express yourself. You may like to have one or a few different readings to fully capture what you want to say about your lost loved one.
Funeral readingsWe offer the highest level of support, but don't just take our word for it. Below are recent reviews from customers who bought a funeral with us.
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Over 74,000 cremations a year
Westerleigh Group including Distinct Cremations carried out over 74,000 cremations in 2024.
