Book excerpt: Grief is a natural and healthy reaction to loss but it can be extremely debilitating and result in a downward emotional spiral, impacting on such aspects of life as relationships and work. Relentless grief can cause a host of physical problems due to the sufferer not looking after themselves properly, for example not eating, becoming over-reliant on alcohol, experiencing disrupted sleep. It can also lead to serious emotional and psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, health anxiety and panic attacks. This self-help book will prove invaluable to the recently bereaved, guiding them through the painful process of bereavement. Topics covered: Dealing with expected or unexpected death Challenging unhelpful thoughts Establishing a routine and tackling avoidance Returning to work Practical aspects such as dealing with the funeral, birthdays, etc. Planning a new future