dealing with grief

“Grief, is the normal, natural and inevitable response to loss, and it can affect every part of our life, including our thoughts, behaviours, beliefs, feelings, physical health and our relationships with others.”

Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement

Everyone grieves in their own way, and there is no right or wrong way. When you are grieving, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions, including:

Sadness
Shock
Denial
Numbness, a sense of unreality
Anger
Guilt & Regret
Anxiety & Panic
Relief

Grief can also impact us physically. You may have difficulty sleeping, and experience headaches, nausea, aches and pains. Grief can be exhausting, weakening your immune system, which means you are prone to colds and other illnesses. It can also impact on how you think.

How to deal with grief

It is important when you are grieving that you take time out for yourself. Set a daily routine or do something special for yourself each day. This might include a daily walk, meditation or something relaxing. This can help with your wellbeing and state of mind.

Stay connected – it is important to spend time with supportive people. Accept offers of help, talk about your loved one, or spend time with others.

It is also a good idea to avoid making any major decisions for around a year after your loved one has passed.

Allow yourself time to grieve.

Some other things that may help:

Turn to family and friends for comfort
Keep a diary or journal
Regular exercise
Eat healthy and avoid drinking alcohol excessively
Create a ritual for anniversaries – light a candle, listen to special music, look through old photos and videos, gather with family
Draw comfort from your faith or spiritual beliefs
Do something that makes you feel relaxed and calm (listening to music, writing/drawing, meditation, yoga, massage, take a long bath, read a book)
Try and maintain a bedtime routine
Join a support group
Talk to a grief counsellor