When communities experience a traumatic loss it can affect people in lots of different ways. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and everyone will have their own ways of coping.
It is not always easy to talk to those closest to you about how you are feeling. Local support groups, religious institutions and other self-help resources may help you through this difficult time. Who you speak to may vary depending on what you are most comfortable with. Below are some links to local and national support networks:
NHS Western Isles Community Chaplaincy Listening Service (CCL). Tel. 01851 704704 ext. 2408
Cool 2 Talk. Web: www.cool2talk.org
Cool 2 Talk Online Counselling Service (for young people available Mon or Wed evenings from 8pm-9pm). Via website: www.cool2talk.org
Cruse Bereavement Care. Web: www.cruse.org.uk, Tel. 0845 600 2227
Samaritans. Web: www.samaritans.org, Tel: 116 123
Breathing Space. Tel. 0800 83 85 87 (Mon–Thurs 6pm–2am; Friday 6pm–Monday 6am). Web: www.breathingspace.scot
It can also be helpful to let your GP know about your problems as they will be able to help you extend your local support networks. They can also refer you to a trained mental health professional should you and your doctor feel that you need more help.