Ah Ping was a welfare office client case who was encouraged to seek counselling from the Psychological Services Group. Her husband passed away a few years ago, but she was still having difficulty coming to terms with his death and subsequent changes in the pattern of her life were overwhelming to her.

Recognising that bereaved individuals tend to have a lot of unresolved issues and bottled-up emotions to contend with at times like this, one of the most important things to do during the initial consultation is to allow clients time to grieve, that is, to facilitate the releasing of pent-up emotions. Support is also important to encourage bereaved individuals to face up to, and cope with, perceived difficulties in their daily lives following their loss.

"I cried nearly every time I saw my psychologist during the first few months or so, but I would feel relieved after shedding all those tears as I knew she was there to listen to me. She was very supportive, helping me rebuild my self-confidence ," said Ah Ping.

Ah Ping also participated in some female support group activities, was able to open up to others during discussions and consequently started to make new friends.

In fact, most bereaved individuals have the capacity to solve their own problems but very often are bewildered and confused at this time of sudden changes in the family.

"Through counselling, I have now become more positive," said Ah Ping. "I have learned to treasure what I have and how to like myself more. Now, I do think of my deceased husband occasionally but am not reduced to tears when I do. Rather, I consider him as an important person in my personal history. Now, I'm learning to enjoy my life as a single person again by exercising and joining in more social activities."

Consent has been obtained from colleagues to publish their stories.

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