There is no one size fits all method on how to deal with grief. How you experience it will differ from how someone else will experience and handle it. There is no right or wrong way for you to handle grief. It is an individual experience.
Losing a friend, a family member, or a colleague can take a toll on you. It is one of life’s biggest challenges, and even the most subtle loss can lead to a grieving path, such as a move to a new house or job.
What are the stages of grief?
Grief is known to come in five stages. The first stage you will experience is denial. The loss may not seem imminent to you yet, and it may take time to accept it.
The second stage is anger. Anger will make you experience rage for the loss as your emotions are trying to look for the reason behind the loss.
The third stage is bargaining, where you will feel helpless and vulnerable, and you’ll end up seeking avenues to give you comfort. You might end up asking yourself questions like ‘if only’ and ‘what if’.
The fourth stage is depression. At this stage, you will experience a feeling of being overwhelmed, extremely sad, dazed, and confused. Seeking help during this stage can help you cope and readily move to the last stage, acceptance.
Whatever grief you may be experiencing, it is essential to take healthy steps towards acceptance. Grieving is a process, and it requires that you exercise patience as you allow your emotions to unfold and detach.
Here’s a look at some healthy tips that will lead you to recovery.
Talk it out
Talking about what you are experiencing can help release pent-up feelings. In the face of grief, you will have people around you who want to help you out the best they can. Pick on a confidante who would listen to you.
If you’re not comfortable talking to someone you know, seeing a therapist is an alternative you can also consider.
Engage in physical activities
Being on the move or doing something physical will help relieve the burden from you. Whether it’s a small stroll or a few push-ups at the gym, physical activities will help you work through the chain of emotions you are experiencing.
When you are active, your body releases endorphins, resulting in you being in a happier mood.
Sign up for a gym membership or commit to morning runs every day. This will significantly improve your mood and your road to acceptance.
Help others
There is no greater form of joy than helping others. You can participate in voluntary activities that improve society and others’ well-being, whether it’s volunteering at an animal shelter or taking part in a donation drive.
Giving back will provide you with a form of relief. The feeling of joy and happiness will be quickly passed on to you.
Pick up a hobby
As you grieve, it is essential to remain engaged and active always. A sad mood can easily lead to depression which will adversely affect your health. Yoga and meditation are excellent ways to regain your balance.
In the wake of grief, you may feel the urge to drop some of your everyday routine tasks. Don’t. Continuously engage yourself during the grieving period to help you return to normalcy.
The vital element in understanding grief is that it’s not a similar process for everyone. It is very personal, and it requires you to take much time and patience. Dealing with a loss is not an easy process. Seek out before the emotional turmoil becomes too much for you to handle.