How to Cope with Grief and Loss

Grief is an intense sadness experienced after a loss. It’s often complex and messy. Grief doesn’t operate in a straight line.

Returning to normal functioning and life as usual can feel impossible, but there are ways you can cope to help.

Give Yourself Permission

When it comes to loss of any kind, grief is a normal part of the process. Unfortunately, as humans, trying to bury emotions or power through the situation is normal. Life doesn’t stop, so why should you?

In order to move through the grief process, you need to give yourself permission to do so. Allow yourself to feel your emotions, take a beat to sit with them, and give yourself some grace. It’s important for the healing process and your own well-being in the long run.

Face Your Situation

Much like trying to bury emotions, many people generally avoid dealing with the situation. It’s easy to find distractions in other people, social activities, and work.

In order to come to terms with the loss, you need to acknowledge that it occurred and let yourself grieve. There is some work involved in accepting the new reality. At the end of the day, life is for the living, and you need to be able to process and move forward in a healthy capacity.

Find Your Support System

When you’re in your grief process, you may feel alone, but it’s likely far from the truth. You have friends and family who can provide support while you’re grieving.

Support group options are also available for you to be a silent attendee or connect with others experiencing a similar situation. Lean on others when you need a little bit of help rather than try to face your loss on your own. There’s strength in numbers.

Be Open About Your Feelings

When you go through a loss, you may find yourself not wanting to talk about what you’re experiencing. Sometimes, it feels easier to shut down or avoid reliving the discussion over again.

The contrary is true. It’s actually better for your grief process to open up about what you’re feeling. Find at least another person with whom you feel safe sharing sensitive information and let your feelings out.

Depending on your situation, you may be in a position to lend a supportive ear to someone else who is also grieving. Being able to aid someone else in their journey can also be a good coping mechanism for your own grief.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

Your brain and your body are closely connected. During periods when your mental health is being challenged, it’s important to keep up with your physical health.

When you maintain your physical health, you’re more equipped to cope with stress and emotional distress. Make sure you’re getting consistent physical activity most days during the week. Eat a well-balanced diet. Get the right amount of sleep each night.

Engage in Self-Care

Self-care is always important, but it can be especially helpful during times of grief and loss. Make sure you’re tending to your mental well-being.

Keep a journal as an outlet for your feelings. Practice meditation and mindfulness. Find a creative outlet or a hobby to focus your energy. Be sure you’re taking time to recenter yourself.

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, the grief process can start to feel too heavy and overwhelming. If you find you’re reaching that point, there are professional options for managing your grief. Seeking out help and guidance can be the key to healing.

If you’re struggling with your grieving process, contact us to set up a consultation.