Losing a loved one is a harrowing experience, no matter the circumstances. It can be a hard time for you and the whole family — you’d be surprised how much little ones pick up on. While there’s no quick-fix, grief is natural and stubborn, so it will take its course. What you can do, however, is pick up some coping mechanisms, and be aware that there’s no ‘right’ way to grieve.
Keep talking
It sounds obvious, but staying in touch with friends and loved ones and expressing how you feel is key. It might not be strictly true that a problem shared is a problem halved, but it is a great way to look after your mental health. During these difficult times, it may be hard to meet loved ones face-to-face, so picking up the phone or organizing a video call to speak with your friends could be the way to go.
Get organized
It may be the hardest thing to do at the time, as brain fog descends and you’re mourning the person you lost, but it’s important to keep an eye on things that need to be organized. That could be calling funeral directors, arranging a will reading, or hiring skilled wrongful death lawyers — these things can be time-sensitive, so act as quickly as you’re able. If you’re struggling, enlist the help of friends or family. By spreading the responsibilities evenly, you allow each other more space and time to grieve.
Be kind to yourself
Grief can naturally take a huge toll on someone mentally and even physically. With so much to do following someone’s death – like organizing a funeral – it can be easy to forget about your needs. Allow yourself some breathing space and try and check back in with your thoughts. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help if you need it — there are professional grief counselors who can be very helpful in dark times.
Find small comforts
While nothing can heal the pain of death instantly, you can surround yourself with small comforts and kindnesses. Consider carving out some time in the day to write memories of the person you lost in a diary and keep them safe. Nourish yourself with good food, and try and spend some time outside to soak in the world. Remind yourself, if you can, that the world keeps on turning, and this too shall pass.
Accept the different stages of grief
Accept your pain and the situation that you’re in, and learn about the different stages of grief that are most common. Knowledge can help people deal with the pain, and understand what may come next in their journey. Grief is a natural process, and people heal in time, so understanding the stages can be useful.
Hopefully, this list has been a comfort to you in dark times. Remember: if you’re struggling, keep open lines of communication with family and friends, and seek professional support should you need it.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.
