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Grief is a universal experience, yet it is one of the most challenging emotions to navigate. Whether you’ve lost a loved one, experienced a major life change, or faced a significant loss, grief can be overwhelming. Coping with grief and loss is a deeply personal journey, and it’s important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Here are 5 Tips for coping with Grief and Loss.
1. “Dose” Your Pain
In grief, sometimes the intensity of emotions can feel overwhelming. It is completely appropriate to “dose” the pain: allowing ourselves space to fully experience our emotions, and times when we give ourselves permission to focus on other things. It is impossible to grieve continuously, and breaks are necessary for healing.
2. Express Your Emotions
When we can allow our emotions to be felt and expressed, they will naturally arise and subside on their own time. It is important to make space in our life to truly feel and express our emotions. That may look like writing in a journal, having a good cry, or sharing our pain with a counsellor or trusted friend.
3. Engage in Self-Care
When we are grieving, sometimes taking care of ourselves may feel extremely difficult. However, when we are able to take small steps to do so, we are giving ourselves the nourishment we need to be able to keep moving forward. Some examples of self-care include eating a nourishing meal, going for a walk, calling a friend, and engaging in activities we enjoy.
4. Reach Out to Others
Grief is a particularly challenging journey when we attempt to go it alone. Sometimes we may feel like we don’t want to burden those around us, or that they will judge us for still being sad. While not everyone will be able to support us in our journey, it is so important to reach out for help from those who can. This may be a friend, family member, a counsellor, or a support group. It can be so helpful to know that we are not alone.
5. Find Ways to Remember the Person
Many people find it supportive to have objects or rituals to remember and honour their loved one. This could include things like lighting a candle, going out for a special meal on their birthday, or having a photograph of the person in a special place on the mantle. It is important to remember that just because a person dies, our relationship with them does not stop. Having tangible ways to honour that relationship can help us process the loss.
Help is Available.
Everyone’s experience of grief is unique, and it is important to be patient with ourselves as we navigate the journey. Remember that seeking professional help from a therapist or counsellor is also a valuable option if you find that grief is overwhelming or persistent.
Interested in learning more about Grief? Check out these resources:
Check out these resources:
If you are looking to connect further or receive support around Grief or a mental health concern, please Contact Us at 250-718-9291 or email us at info@okclinical.com.
Check out these resources:
https://www.centerforloss.com/grief/six-needs-mourning/
https://www.centerforloss.com/grief/grief-mourning-basics/
Written by: Charlotte Spafford, Practicum Student
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