Maybe you are experiencing grief and unsure of what it looks and feels like, or maybe you are unsure what to do about how you feel and how to get through grief. You know it is painful and want to get rid of it. Many people experience grief at some point, and it can get overwhelming. In this post, we will define grief, show examples of how people grieve, and provide six tips on recovering from grief.
What is grief?
Grief is a natural response to loss. It is the emotions experienced as a result of losing loved ones. Often, the pain experienced can be too much to handle and can get overwhelming. Many people have difficulties with grief and experience different emotions, with some unexpected. You may feel shock, anger, disbelief, guilt, fear, and deep sadness. These reactions are normal, and it may also have an impact on physical well-being. Many people may have difficulties eating or sleeping, leading to other issues with physical health.
Coping with loss can be one of the biggest challenges a person may experience. Not only is grief experienced through the death of a loved one, but it can also include:
1. The loss of independence
2. Divorce/break-up of a relationship
3. Declining health
4. The loss of a job
5. Retirement
6. Miscarriage
7. Financial instability
Whatever the loss, everybody experiences it at some point, and there is nothing to be ashamed of. Everyone grieves in different ways and has a different grieving process. Grief is unique to an individual, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. We express that grief in the best way we see fit or how we can. How you grieve depends on your personality, culture, faith/religion, coping methods, and the significance of the loss. There is no time limit to grieving, which may differ for each person. Some may grieve within weeks, some in months, and others in years, but it is more beneficial to go through your grieving experience than to avoid it. There are healthy ways to cope with grief, and in time, it can get easier to cope with sadness, make adjustments, find new meaning, and move through your journey with grief.
Recovering from Grief
Healing happens gradually and on your own time. While there is no specific formula to get through grief, here are some tips to help you recover from your grief:
1. Embrace all emotions. To get through grief, we can consider and accept that grief is a roller coaster of emotions, whether we want it to be. Expressing your feelings is beneficial when dealing with grief as it would not lead to unresolved grief.
2. Maintain hobbies or interests. You can find comfort in keeping up with your routine and doing what you enjoy. This can be painting, art, gardening, reading, etc.
3. Engage in self-care. This can mean anything. It goes back to what piques your interests and taking care of yourself, whether physical or emotional health. Going to the doctor, engage in mindfulness and meeting your needs.
4. Plan for triggers. Anniversaries, milestones, and holidays can be difficult. Plan and understand you may have triggers. Have a game plan to know what to do and who to turn to when this happens.
5. Choose your support network. Whether it is family, friends, or professionals, having a good support system can be beneficial in helping you get through grief. Even join a support group if needed
6. Be patient with yourself. Recognize that grief is a process and things can get better over time. Do not judge yourself; allow yourself to grieve and embrace the process and journey.
Remember, you are not alone in your grief. It is normal to feel different emotions, and everyone handles grief differently. Everyone is unique, and it takes time to work through your loss. There is no right or wrong way to grieve; you control what you choose to do to help you get through your grief. Find professionals who can help you get through and process your grief with you.
For more tips, please check out our other tips here (https://www.plantationcounseling.com/blog). You can always find us at 954-903-1676 for counseling services.