Written by: Shelly Anglin-Smith
Grief is one of those subjects that can be a little tough to deal with. It’s like there is no easy way to get through it. It doesn’t have to be the death of a loved one; it could be the loss of a treasured item or a divorce. There is no magic pill to make the painful sense of loss simply go away.
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Though it may be an inescapable part of being human, we were not given innate skills for coping with it. One thing people find solace in is the comfort offered by others. As always said, “It’s perfectly ok to admit you are not ok”. Some people try keeping it all and pretend they are fine when they are dying inside. Don’t be afraid to reach out to loved ones for their moving company; a phone call, or a hug. The good idea is to share your grief with others going through a similar experience in the form of mutual grieving. This is very therapeutic.
Talking about your feelings regularly is healthy. Find an expert in grief counselling or a support group if that is what you need. Persons of faith usually find comfort and strength in prayer and the act of worship.
One suggested way of looking at the act of grieving is to recognise that it is a process and something to embrace rather than to force away. Pretending the loss is not felt to make life seem more pleasant is not recommended, because the pain is always lingering, waiting to express itself in some manner at some point. In grieving, it is normal to go through a range of emotions, including guilt, fear or even anger.
Your feelings may even change suddenly – one minute you are laughing, and the next you are weeping uncontrollably. This sudden change is perfectly normal. Acknowledging and healthily expressing your feelings helps you through the grieving process.
Talking about your feelings regularly is healthy.
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