Many of us face the issues and struggles that cause the loss of a close friend or family member. When we lose a spouse, sibling, or parent our grief can be particularly intense. Loss is considered a natural part of life, but we can still be overcome by shock and confusion, leading to prolonged periods of sadness or depression.
Everyone’s reaction to death is different. Research shows that most people can recover from loss on their own through the passage of time if they have social support and healthy habits. It may take months or a year to come to terms with a loss. There is no “normal” time period for someone to grieve. Don’t expect to pass through phases of grief either, as research suggests that most people do not go through stages as progressive steps.
If your relationship with the deceased was difficult, overcoming the vacuum that they created in your life is very painful and definitely, it is a slow process. It may take some time and thought before you are able to look back on the relationship and adjust to the loss.
Here are some ways to help you to overcome the situation of the loss of your beloved ones.
Moving on with Life
Mourning the loss of a close friend or relative takes time. But researchers tell us that it can also act as a catalyst to become calm.
Grieving gives you a freeness. Talk about the death of your loved one with friends or colleagues in order to help you understand what happened and remember your friend or family member. Avoidance can lead to isolation and will disrupt the healing process with your support systems.
Accept your Feelings
You may experience a wide range of emotions from sadness, anger, or even exhaustion. All of these feelings are normal. You might break with many situations. But it is also a calming process. If you feel stuck or overwhelmed by these emotions, it may be helpful to talk with a licensed psychologist or another mental health professional who can help you cope with your feelings and find ways to get back on track.Take care of yourself and your family. Eating healthy foods, exercising and getting plenty of sleep can help your physical and emotional health. The grieving process can take a toll on one’s body. Make sure you check in with your loved ones and that they are taking the necessary healthy steps to maintain their health.
Spend Time with Loved Ones
Spending time with loved ones can help you to overcome your grief. Whether it’s sharing stories or listening to your loved one’s favorite music, these small efforts can make a big difference to some. Helping others has the added benefit of making you feel better as well. Remember and celebrate the lives of your loved ones. Anniversaries of a lost loved one can be a difficult time for friends and family, but they can also be a time for remembrance and honoring them. It may be that you decide to collect donations to a favorite charity of the deceased, pass on a family name to a baby or planting a garden in memory. What you choose is up to you, as long as it allows you to honor that unique relationship in a way that feels right to you.