Some people find that they want to get back to work, school or 'normal' life as soon as possible, as a way of keeping busy and carrying on. Others find that they need time to themselves, to let the enormity of the loss sink in, before they can venture back into their lives.
Talk to your employer about your situation. You may be able to take compassionate leave or unpaid holiday. Do what feels best for you and your family.
Grieving is a process which takes time. You may never get over the loss of someone you care about. But you come to terms with it and learn how to cope with it.
It is important that you are patient with yourself and those around you. Losing someone you love is the most difficult part of life, no one expects you to bounce straight back as though nothing has happened.
It may be painful, but it may help to recall happy memories of the person. Remembering them as they were may help you to smile through your grief. Try talking about them or looking at pictures. You could gather mementoes of them and make a memory book.
Don't feel rushed to move their belongings. Clothes and possessions can be painful reminders at first, but over time you and others may value them as memories.
Only sort through belongings when you are ready. It may prove to be very difficult and you may feel deep pain at selling or throwing out the person's possessions. So think about whether you want someone there, or whether you need to do it by yourself.
You may like to keep something, such as a favourite t-shirt. Often bereaved people hold onto an item of clothing as a reminder of their loved one's special smell. When you do feel ready to sort out belongings, bear in mind that others might like something as a special keepsake.
Visiting the grave or place where the ashes were scattered might help you to feel close to the person. Laying flowers, talking at the graveside and writing messages are all ways of remembering, paying your respects, and 'showing' the person you still think of them, which can be very comforting.