How to help my Dad cope with my mother's death?

jeannegibbs, thanks. this whole experience is so hard and new. i am trying, but for me nighttime is the worst. i know i gotta be strong for my dad, but during the night is when i face my own demons, i guess. i just needed someone to listen. all our hearts are breaking.

Hold his hand and let him cry and talk.

Of course he is devastated. How could he be anything else? And you don't shake that kind of devastation off in a few days.

Of course it is so hard to see him in such pain and sorrow. It would be sadder if he had never had anyone in his life whose loss would devastate him so.

Time will help. But a few days is definitely not nearly enough time. Be patient and comforting. Perhaps looking through some photo albums or sharing memories would be worth trying.

If this goes on for months without improvement, consider getting him help. Now, let him mourn in his own way.