Preparing questions in advance can help patients to have more meaningful discussions with their physicians regarding their conditions. Patients may wish to ask their doctor the following questions regarding coping with death and dying:

1. I thought I was feeling better about the loss of my loved one, but there are times when I have sudden crying spells. Is this normal or do I need professional help?
   
2. Since my loss, I just don’t seem to have any interest or enthusiasm for anything anymore. When will these feelings pass?
   
3. I’ve been diagnosed with a terminal illness and I want to talk about it with my family, but they’re very uncomfortable and try to change the subject. How can I get them to open up to me?
   
4. Why would it be a mistake for me to tell my child that his grandpa has gone to sleep, rather than say he died?
   
5. Is it normal for me to feel so angry all the time?
   
6. Do you think that I or members of my family would benefit from mental health counseling?
   
7. What help would a support group provide me?
   
   
8. Can you recommend a support group for me?
   
   
9. Since the loss of my loved one, I have been having difficulty sleeping. Would you recommend the use of a sleep aid?