What is it like seeing the dead person and should I go?

This is a really hard question to answer and whether you should go and see your loved one’s body is a decision you need to make alongside your family.  There are some things you should consider before you go.

A family member may be required to view a body in the morgue in order to confirm their identity.

A ‘Chapel of Rest’ is a room or building which is often attached to a funeral home and is where people can go to view someone who has died before the funeral.  The person will be in a coffin with the lid open so you are able to see them, they will usually be dressed in clothes the family have provided for them.  Their eyes will be shut and great care will have been taken to try and make sure they look at rest and peaceful.  The room will be private and only have them in, there is usually chairs and there may be peaceful music playing softly.  The room WILL be cold, this is needed to help to preserve the body, this means if you lay your hand on your special persons skin it WILL be cold to the touch.

Remember your funeral director will be the best person to talk to as they will be able to talk through and answer any specific questions you may have.

There is no right or wrong answer to this question, you need to do what is right for you. Some people find it helpful to view the body as this helps them to process and understand they are really dead and are not coming back, not everyone will need or want to do this.  You also need to consider this might not be an option, you may not be allowed to view the body in some circumstances; traumatic deaths, forensic reasons or the family not wishing for visitors…  It is important you talk to someone to help you answer any questions and thoughts you may have around this.

“I didn’t see my dad’s body and I don’t have any regrets but I know it helps other people”

Simon Says Young Person