Anxious about attending a funeral because you don’t know what to expect? This is not uncommon among guests at Freer, TX, funeral homes. 

Funerals can be difficult for anyone, whether you are planning or attending. Not only are you dealing with grief, but you’re coordinating with other people who are likely also coming to terms with the loss. 

With all those emotions flying around, it’s easy for things to get awkward, especially if you are not used to the setting. 

Here are six tips to not only help you cope with funeral anxiety but also make it a positive experience: 

1. Prepare yourself by reading a bit about the funeral. 

In most cases, it is a good idea to read up on the funeral service, especially if you are attending a religious or cultural funeral. You’ll likely find information about the service in the obituary, on the funeral home’s website or the family’s social media pages. 

Many religious organizations also have websites that include this information with frequently asked questions to help guests better understand what they should expect at a funeral service. 

2. Dress appropriately for the event. 

This is important even when attending a funeral for someone you weren’t close to or did not know. Most families will provide information about attire in the obituary. You can coordinate with those in your party or reach out to the funeral home. 

If you are unsure, err on the side of being conservative and dress more formally than you would normally wear to an average day at work or school. 

3. Be open about how you feel. 

The funeral anxiety you are feeling is more common than you think. Sometimes, acknowledging the nerves and talking it through with someone who gets it helps take the edge off. It can be someone close, like a friend or family member, or a funeral professional. 

The latter are trained to help guide people through this exact scenario, so it’s okay to ask. 

4. Be on time. 

You don’t want to be the person who runs late to a funeral service you are nervous about attending. Arriving early is preferable so that you have time to find a seat, take care of any pre-needs, and pay your respects to the family before the service begins. 

If you are attending a religious service, you may be asked to participate in the procession at some point during the service. Arriving on time will help you find your place in line. 

5. Bring something for the host family. 

This may include flowers or a keepsake item requested by the family. Sign your condolence gift if it matters to you that the family knows where it is from. You generally want to avoid bringing items not intended for use at the service to the funeral. 

Some sympathy gifts, like food, may be better given to the grieving party before or after the event. Sticking to what is useful or asked for helps you contribute better to the service, which in turn makes you feel more at ease. 

6. Come bearing tissues. 

You are more likely than not to feel a range of emotions at a funeral, so come prepared. You shouldn’t be so bothered trying to maintain your composure that you don’t express your grief. On the flip side, you also do not need to force things like crying just because everyone else is. 

Take what you need to get through the service, be it a short break or a support person. 

In the end, the nerves you feel have to do with grief, which makes them perfectly normal in these circumstances. 

Our funeral home in Freer, TX, understands this and has the needed support on hand whether you are planning a service with us or attending one. Do not hesitate to get in touch with us today.