Help with Grief and Loss

  Grieving individuals often describe their emotions as coming in waves, with no warning or control. One moment, life may seem normal, and the next, tears may flow. The grieving process involves the full spectrum of emotions, including sadness, anger, and even joy. At times, it ay feel as though you're operating on autopilot, disconnected from your emotions.

The physical toll of loss can be significant, as grief can overwork the nervous system and weaken the immune system, leaving you vulnerable to illness. Grief and loss can also interfere with concentration and completing tasks.

While all grief is complex, it can sometimes become even more so, evolving into complicated or prolonged grief. This type of grief often occurs in extremely challenging circumstances or involves severe symptoms that impact daily life for an extended period. Getting early help with grief can improve functionality. 

 The grieving process takes time and patience, but there are steps you can take to make it easier on yourself and those around you who require your support and grief therapy.

• Self-Care
• Make self-care a priority. When you are grieving, taking care of your mind and body is critical. Make sure you get seven to eight hours of sleep each night and rest when you need to. Exercise and consume nutritious meals on a regular basis. Try meditation or yoga, take soothing baths, and put your well-being first. Remember that self-care is essential while you grieve, and don't feel guilty about it.
• Keep to a routine. Grief disrupts your sense of normalcy and throws your emotions into turmoil. Sticking to a routine can help you regain a sense of control and regulate your emotions. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, and try to eat meals at consistent times. Shower, and celebrate each accomplishment as a victory.

•  Acknowledge your emotions. When dealing with difficult emotions, it's tempting to distract yourself with work or hobbies. However, grieving necessitates confronting painful emotions. It's okay to cry, remember shared moments with a loved one who has passed on, and express your feelings in ways that are meaningful to you, such as journaling, telling stories, or singing a song.
• Seek support from others. One of the most effective ways to cope with loss is to remember the connections you still have. When you're grieving, it's okay to need alone time, but don't isolate yourself. Remember that not everything has changed, and that there are people in your life who love you and want to help you with your grief and loss. 
• Talk to a therapist or grief counselor. Sometimes, working through grief requires the help of a professional. If your symptoms haven't subsided after six months or if your grief is interfering with your ability to live your life, it may be time to seek professional assistance.