Grief is a natural response to loss. It’s the emotional suffering you feel when something or someone you love is taken away.  Everyone grieves differently, and there is no time frame for the grieving process.

Some emotions people grieving may experience include:

There are practical things you can do to get through a time of bereavement or loss:

• Express yourself. It is not true that ignoring feelings will make them go away.  Talking is often a good way to soothe painful emotions. Talking to a friend, family member, health professional, or counsellor can begin the healing process.  Journaling can also help.
• Allow yourself to feel sad. It’s a healthy part of the grieving process.
• Keep your routine up. Keeping up simple routines, like walking the dog every morning, can help.
• Sleep. Emotional strain can make you very tired.  Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule.
• Eat healthily.  A well-balanced diet is crucial to your mental health and will help you cope.
• Avoid things that “numb” the pain, such as drugs and alcohol. It will make you feel worse once the numbness wears off.
• Try counseling. When you are ready, get help from a licensed mental health professional who is trained to help you cope with grief and loss.

Find more resources for coping with grief and loss here.

 Join the Stand UP Foundation on Friday, March 3 at 7:00 PM for a Neon Nights Walk at Harbourside.  The walk will educate participants about issues such as grief and loss and help fund Stand UP’s programs.  Summit Performance Consulting LLC is proud to be a Neon Night’s sponsor.  Click here to register!