One way I have found to cope with my best friends death was talking about her and sharing her story with other friends.
I'm sorry your friend died.
You at least sound as though you're dealing with it better now.
And you're right that talking to other people about the death of a friend or family member could be very helpful in the healing process.
I am glad you had people to listen to you talk about your friend.
My mother died about two years ago, but nobody wants to talk to me about it. People (including family members, sadly) avoid me. They won't return phone calls, or e-mail me to ask me how I'm doing.
I am thinking some of these people are afraid if they talk to me about my mom's death it will only make me more sad, but no, it hurts worse to be ignored and avoided like this.
Maybe some of them feel uncomfortable to be around someone who is mourning and that's why they don't check up on me. I don't care what their reasons or excuses are, I find it unloving and selfish.