When you lose a loved one through death, it is normal to feel sad, angry, depressed, confused, worried, and hopeless. Everyone reacts to grief in their way, and if you are finding it hard to cope, there are some ways to find the much-needed support.

Death is tough to deal with, especially when the deceased was a loved one or very close to you. Whether it is a soulmate, a family member, a friend, colleague, or a pet, you are likely to experience mixed emotions that you do not understand.

You need to know that grief is usually the emotional response to this loss and is a long process rather than an event. It can impact how you feel mentally, socially, and even physically. Therefore you need more time to come to terms with the loss and heal.

Is there a right way to grieve?

According to grief counselors, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. It is normal to feel sad, confused, angry, worried, guilty, or even relieved. Other people will be completely numb and not feel anything. Moreover, culture and how your family understands loss may impact how you cope with death or grieve. Some people experience grief for a prolonged period, while others experience it for a short while.

The feelings of sadness may also come back during some occasions, for instance, when you experience your birthday, Christmas, or anniversary without that person. Such feelings can also catch you unaware, leading to worry, sadness and hopelessness. You might also feel abandoned or guilty, but it is good to know that you are not alone and your feelings are valid.

How to work through your grief

Many people will tell you that grieving takes time, and it is best not to do it alone. Most people move through the grieving process with the help of family and friends. It is best to seek professional grief counseling NJ at times, especially when your feelings are getting out of hand. An experienced grief counselor can help you understand the loss of your loved one, accept their death and come to terms with your feelings.

Talking to someone helps when dealing with daily life is challenging due to grief. For instance, tell a trusted friend, family member, or counselor about your feelings. It is normal to feel guilty about someone’s death but remember that the loss you experience is not your fault. Also, if you stop feeling sad or in pain doesn’t mean that you don’t care enough. You are allowed to move on after the death of a loved one, and it is not a sign that you don’t care enough or you didn’t love them enough.

Key takeaways

• Keep a diary of how you feel.
• Write a poem or some words about the person you lost.
• Write the deceased a letter telling them all the things you have wanted to say to them.
• Express yourself through words, painting, and pictures.
• Indulge in a hobby.
• Create a memory box with good things that remind you of the person you have lost.
• Talk to a family member, friend, or grief counselor.