4 Tips To Navigate Through Grief and Loss

By Candice McKinney, MA

Beyond Counseling, Inc.

. https://www.beyondcounselinginc.com/

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4 Tips To Navigate Through Grief and Loss

This year, grief has been a resounding theme with the emergence of COVID-19 and the immeasurable impact it has placed on many families. However, the death of a loved one is not the only form of grief a person can experience. People can grieve the loss of employment, divorce, or even unexpected changes in friendships as some of our children have experienced due to being away from physical school buildings where they can interact daily with their friends. While it is easy to become overwhelmed as one works through the phases of grief, it is equally important to recognize that it is okay to seek help and ask for support.

Below are four tips to help with navigating through grief.

1. Accept and acknowledge the feelings you may be experiencing. Understand that everyone’s journey through the stages of grief happens at different moments. Grief is not a sign of weakness or lack of faith, but rather a sign of great love and adoration. Accept whatever feelings you may be experiencing and know that it is okay to feel super pumped in one moment and full of tears in the next. However, remaining in tune with yourself and what you need will aid in helping you navigate through the stages of grief more smoothly.
2. Get Support. This can happen in a number of ways but one example is having conversations about your emotional state with trusted family, friends, or support groups. There are benefits to connecting with others during a time when you are apt to feel lonely. Be aware of the signs of depression, anxiety, or extreme moments of grief. Seek professional guidance through a medical professional or a licensed mental health therapist so they can further support you along the journey.
3. Practice Mindfulness & Journaling. Consider practicing mindfulness which will support you in focusing your awareness on the present while calmly acknowledging the feelings, thoughts, or emotions you may be experiencing. Journaling is another useful tool that will help you get the thoughts out of your mind and onto paper so that you can begin to think of ways to better process your emotions.
4. Find Ways to Honor the Memory of your Loved Ones. While it may be difficult to replace the void you have, finding ways to remember your loved one in happier moments is a great way to honor their memory.