Coping With the Loss of a Loved One

 Whether the loss of a loved one is expected or sudden, it remains one of the most difficult challenges to overcome in life. It's hard to cope with the inevitable flood of emotions.

In your heart you know that your loved one wouldn't want you to grieve forever. They want you to carry on and live a good life, while still remembering and loving them. The best honor and dedication to your relationship with a loved one who has passed, is to have learned from not only the loss but the incredible love as well in order to live the rest of your life in a happy and healthy manner.

Each person must grieve in their own unique way and in accordance with their time frame. However, it can be helpful to know ways in which others have been helped in their grieving in the past.

Consider the following tips for coping with loss:

1. Be open. Your first reaction to loss may be to close up. You may need time alone to work through your feelings and to grieve. For some their first reaction to loss is opposite. Rather than isolate, they remain very busy in the outside world. They aren't ready to change their schedule or life in any way.  During the initial shock of the loss of someone you love, follow your intuition toward whichever way helps you cope the best.

 After the initial grieving, however, it helps to talk about your loss. Talk with others who are coping with the same loss to help you both. It may also help to discuss your feelings with people who are outside of the situation.

2. Don't be afraid to cry. Some people keep these emotions inside until it hurts. Men are also more likely to resist the urge to cry. While you might have trouble crying in front of others, if you need a good cry, it's important to give yourself the chance to do so. The release is likely to make you feel better.

3. Focus on the good. It's so easy to allow your mind to think about what you didn't get a chance to say or do. These thoughts make you feel worse and keep you in a somber mood. Instead, think about the good times you shared with your loved one. Think about the times you've laughed together. You can even get together with others and discuss the good times.

4. Accept yourself. There's no right way to grieve the loss of a loved one. You can read many articles and books on the subject, but eventually you'll have to get through it the best way you know how. Familiarize yourself with the stages of grief; it may help you come to terms with your current feelings and to see where you are in the grieving process.

5. Get help. If you're barely getting through your day-to-day life, perhaps it's time to seek some help from others. Look into local support groups for people who are going through a similar type of loss. You can even look for help from specially trained therapists or grief counselors.

6. Remember your physical health. When you go through any type of psychological trauma, your physical health often suffers. Ensure you to take the time to look after yourself and your physical health. Exercising and feeding your body nutritious foods will help you stay healthy during this time.

The loss of a loved one is unlike anything else. Don't be afraid to feel your emotions. Remember: take life one step at a time. These tips can help you get back on the road to healing so you can find your way back on your feet.

If you or someone you love is facing a terminal illness, Dr. Jodi Peary offers End of Life Doula Services. To schedule a free consultation to learn more you can go here.