“Grief is like the ocean; it comes on waves ebbing and flowing. Sometimes the water is calm, and sometimes it’s overwhelming. All you can do is learn to swim.” Vicki Harrison
Grief is an overwhelming experience nobody is ever prepared for.
People deal with grief differently. While to some, it comes immediately after a loss, to others, it is experienced months or even years later.
Indications of delayed grief may include : Intense emotions such as anger, guilt, depression, anxiety, sadness, and Physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty in concentrating, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, among many others.
Delayed grief is just as valid and authentic as immediate grief. Navigating the gap between loss and the onset of grief can be challenging, making it difficult to know how to proceed during this period. While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing grief, here are six tips to effectively cope with this complex emotion:
Allow yourself to experience the feeling– Studies have shown that suppressing emotions actually endangers ones health and well-being, both physically and psychologically. Despite the fear of confronting emotions, avoiding them often leads to emotional buildup.
Honour your loss – People honour the loss of their loved ones in various ways such as having anniversaries, holding on to their possession and memories among others.
Be kind to yourself – Incorporate small acts of kindness into your routine such as resting or doing something you enjoy.
Seek counselling – Speak up.. Seeking professional counselling services is a safe and trusting environment where you can openly share your emotions and feelings. Transolution Services offers counselling and therapy aimed at helping you navigate life situations and growth, leading to self-improvement.
Work towards your healing – Make a conscious effort to heal. While the pain and hurt do not go away, they will gradually lessen, thus allowing you to embrace acceptance and progress.