A Guide To Surviving Grief
10 Ways To Heal After Experiencing Loss
Grief is a powerful and universal human experience that can leave us feeling lost, overwhelmed, and heartbroken. It is deeply complex and emotional yet doesn’t come with a user manual.
When I lost my dad at the age of 23, I was catapulted into grief without the self-awareness and resources to navigate it in a safe manner. I was riddled with anxiety, unable to sleep, drinking too much, and so stressed my body went into perimenopause.
Looking back, it would be easy to say “well you weren’t grieving correctly” or “you should have done it this way instead”. Sure, I could have! But what I have learned is that grief is deeply personal and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. I don’t claim to be an expert but one of the biggest lessons I learned is that healing takes a whole lot of self-compassion and patience. So remember to be gentle with yourself and allow the healing process to evolve naturally.
Here are 10 Ways to help you Heal and emerge stronger on the other side:
Be kind to yourself.
Give yourself permission to feel a range of emotions without judgment and understand that your feelings are valid. It's okay to experience moments of sadness, anger, or even moments of joy. Treat yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend going through a difficult time.
Acknowledge your feelings.
Acknowledging your emotions in grief involves intentionally recognizing, accepting, and validating the different feelings that come up during the mourning process. Remember, your grief is a uniquely personal experience and your feelings are worthy of acknowledgment.
Understand that grief is not linear.
Grieving is unique to each individual and there is no right or wrong way to navigate it. Allow yourself the freedom to grieve in your own time and in your own way. Some days may be easier than others, and that's perfectly normal.
Reduce self-blame.
It's common to question if you could have done more or if you're somehow responsible for the loss. Challenge these thoughts and focus on accepting that certain events are beyond our control. Forgive yourself and redirect your energy towards the healing process.
Celebrate the life of your loved one.
Create a space to honor their legacy, whether through a memorial, storytelling, or engaging in activities they loved. By focusing on the positive aspects of their life, you can foster a sense of connection and love that surpasses the physical world.
Lean into your community.
Share your feelings with friends, family, or a support group who can provide empathy and understanding. Surrounding yourself with a network of caring individuals can offer comfort and companionship, reminding you that you are not alone in your grief.
Cry when you need to.
Crying allows you to express and process overwhelming emotions. It is a natural and essential part of the healing process that releases stress hormones and eases physical and mental pain.
Prioritize self-care.
Establish a routine that includes activities that bring you comfort and relaxation. This may involve practicing mindfulness, finding a hobby, or simply taking moments of solitude to re-group.
Get moving.
Exercise naturally releases endorphins and helps to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Whether it's a gentle walk, yoga, or more intense exercise, physical activity can have positive effects on your mood and energy levels.
Ask for help.
If you find it challenging to cope with grief on your own, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and support tailored to your specific needs. Joining a grief support group can also offer a sense of community and understanding from others who are going through similar experiences.
Looking for extra support? Book an appointment now.