Tips for Coping with Grief
Experiencing the loss of a loved one can be difficult enough. When their passing happens unexpectedly though, the emotion felt can be even greater. We all know that death is inevitable. It’s something we will all eventually face. When someone passes “before their time” or suddenly, you might feel overwhelmed. Afterall, grief can affect both your physical and psychological well-being.
Handling grief is something we all experience differently. Some may not show it on the outside but can very easily feel like their world is falling apart on the inside. Others are more visible with their pain and sadness. While experiencing grief, make sure you don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s journey is different, and we all grieve in different ways.
Regardless, here are some things to consider and tips for coping with grief.
Things Will Be Emotional
Expect to feel a range of emotions as you grieve. This is completely normal. Shock, anger, sadness, disbelief, and guilt are all common emotions we experience when grieving. The journey of grief is different for everyone so if your mood is different than someone else in mourning, don’t compare the two. We all grieve at our own pace and some may not experience the same emotions as you. As difficult as things may be, just remember that this is part of the process and they will get better.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
In the days following a loved one’s death, you’ll likely receive open-ended offers to help out if there is anything you need. People like to do this to express their sympathy and show support. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if they’ve offered. Some people are hesitant because they feel like they might be a bit of a burden if they ask. But, if someone is offering you help, it’s because they care and want to be there to help support you.
Accepting someone’s offer can make things easier for you. Simple things like picking the kids up from school, dropping off a casserole for dinner, or mowing the grass are all easy ways to lighten your load without asking too much from a loved one.
Get Back to Your Routine
Routines are great because they create a sense of familiarity. Once the service is over and others start to return to their lives, you may be wondering what now? Getting back into your routine can help feel more at ease. You shouldn’t feel pressured to get back into your routine right away but taking small steps can help you move forward and adjust to life without your loved one.
Consider Counselling
If you find yourself experiencing any physical or psychological symptoms of grief, don’t be afraid to speak with a counsellor. Losing a loved one is difficult. Just having someone to talk to about what you’re feeling can bring relief and help you work through these difficulties. If you don’t want to speak with a stranger, don’t be afraid to pick the phone up and call a close friend. They’ll be there to support you.
Take Your Time
Remember, we all grieve differently (at our own pace). Take your time and don’t compare yourself to others. Just because someone else seems to be back to normal but you’re still mourning doesn’t mean anything is wrong with you or them. Just take your time, work through the emotions you’re feeling, and work towards moving forward.
Do Something to Honor Them
An excellent way to honor someone’s memory and pay respects is to do something to honor them. This could be planting a memorial tree, making a donation in their name, or spreading their ashes in a special place. Whatever you choose to do, planning a special way to pay tribute to them can be very beneficial to the grieving process.
Live Like They Did
One of the best tips for coping with grief is to do something your loved one enjoyed doing. This can help you feel connected to them in a special way. Whether it be fishing at their favorite spot, mastering their recipes or something else, enjoy spending some time doing what they enjoyed. Who knows, you just might find a new hobby to do whenever you want to feel close to them.