Grief can be a challenging feeling to grapple with especially around the holiday season. As families gather, many individuals and families can feel a greater sense of loss knowing a loved one or pet is no longer present. These losses could be recent, from years ago, or even ambiguous, and feelings can resurface as moments bring back memories associated with the loss you or your loved ones have experienced. No matter which type of loss it is, it can heighten the feelings of grief and sadness during a time when many others appear to be joyful.
There can be many complex emotions that may arise when coping with grief. While these feelings and emotions may seem universal, everyone’s experience with grief is unique. Below are some helpful ways to help you or a loved one manage many of the feelings associated with loss.
1. Feel Your Feelings
It is not unusual for those to hide or conceal their emotions to fit society’s expectations. Individuals feel as though they need to operate like nothing happened, and continue with their daily routine. But one must acknowledge and embrace the strong emotions they feel. An individual may be confused by what they feel but recognize it. Writing your feelings down in a journal or speaking to those you love and trust, can help you process these emotions and better label them to determine which coping skills work best for you in each situation.
If you sense these emotions are difficult to manage on your own, there are professional resources available. A mental health therapist can help provide you with the tools you need to manage grief. One-on-one therapy provides you with a confidential space to vent and process feelings in an environment free of judgment.
Therapy groups for grief support are also a great option. Guided by a trained mental health professional, grief support groups provide a more conversational arena for you to discuss and relate to others going through similar experiences. For more information and resources or to discuss which options may work best for you contact Conventions Psychiatry in Warrenville, IL.
2. Don't Push Yourself
Set your limits. After the loss of a loved one it can be burdensome to engage in certain functions. Others may even put pressure on you to attend events or return to daily activities but know your own limits. It is ok and acceptable to set boundaries. Be conscious of your limits, create a plan if needed and allow yourself to heal accordingly.
Giving yourself space is okay and many of those who have experienced loss understand the need to take time to oneself to process their thoughts. Staying within your comfort zone in a challenging time is normal.
3. Hold onto Memories and Create New Ones
Memories and traditions can bring comfort and assurance knowing their love is never gone. Consider the activities you previously did with those you love, and create a new tradition to carry on their legacy. Was there a dish you used to make together? A movie you used to watch together? Perform these tasks on your own or with friends and honor those you have lost while also creating new memories with others you love.
4. Engage in Acts of Kindness
It is no surprise that helping those around you can make you feel good. Giving and receiving compliments can change someone’s entire mood for the better. Compliment strangers, donate time and or items to those in need. By supporting others you are internally supporting yourself. Individuals obtain value by bringing joy and assistance to someone in need.
These acts of kindness can also be a great way to divert your focus onto emotions of joy rather than sadness.
According to Psychology Today’s Eva Ritvo MD, helping others can release what is known as the Happiness Trifecta in the brain, giving you a boost of dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin, all of which have unique benefits for the mind and body.
5. Seek Support
If needed, grief support groups and professional help is available at Conventions Psychiatry in Warrenville, IL. Coping with grief and loss can be hard and seeking help may be needed. While you can rely on your closest friends and family during a difficult time it may not always be enough. Never feel as though you are alone, there is always someone there to help you. Ignore the stigma to seek grief support and choose to do what is best for you.
