When the grief of losing a loved one is combined with the responsibility of having to make funeral arrangements, stress can take over the experience. While it’s important to respect your emotions during this time, there are many ways you can reduce anxiety and feel more at ease about funeral planning. Providing more than 90 years of trusted service, Fossum Funeral Home in Onalaska, WI, shares some of the most effective strategies for lowering stress.

5 Funeral Planning Tips to Lower Stress

1. Make a Timeline

From contacting family and friends to arranging a memorial service, there are many things to tend to after a loved one passes. If you’re overwhelmed by funeral planning tasks, it’s important to prioritize them and figure out what needs to happen first. Your funeral director can help you organize a checklist and discuss ways to stretch out the planning process without feeling rushed.

2. Organize Documents  

Funeral arrangements involve a great deal of paperwork, which will require you to have many of the deceased’s documents on hand. As such, it’s recommended you compile essential documents—such as birth and marriage certificates, insurance policies, and social security card—from the start. By keeping these items together in a folder, you can have everything on hand when needed.

3. Put Price Into Perspective  

Many people become stressed about being able to afford a funeral, while still providing their loved one with everything they deserve. However, it’s important to realize there are many tasteful, appropriate options available at varying price points. By having a clear picture of the budget—including insurance benefits or savings accounts—ahead of time, you can keep track of expenses and avoid spending more than you need to.

4. Ask for Help    

While death is a time of loss, it can also be a time where people come together. If funeral planning leaves you exhausted, it’s important to call on the help of friends and family. Delegating planning responsibilities will help you keep a clear focus, as well as enjoy the support that others offer.

5. Take Care of Yourself

When planning a funeral, you may be focused on meeting the needs of others or honoring the deceased. But if you aren’t eating balanced meals and getting adequate rest, you may contribute to the stress—and put your health at risk.

If you need funeral planning assistance in Onalaska, turn to the trusted specialists at Fossum Funeral Home. Approaching every client with respect and compassion, these funeral directors can help you explore the options best for you or your loved one, as well as your budget. To schedule a visit, call (608) 783-9777, or visit them online.