Grief

By Lucille Rosetti

Grief is something most adults have struggled with at some point in their life. Sadly, it’s often misunderstood or swept under the rug. If you’ve lost someone and aren’t sure how to cope, it can feel difficult to know how to manage your feelings. Some days, it might even feel like there’s no hope. The truth is that grief is hard and comes in waves, but there are ways you can use your grief to grow.

Learning From Grief

Life is short. No matter where you are in the grieving process, you likely already know this. When you’re grieving, it’s natural to take a look at your own life and goals and consider ways you’ll make the most of your life going forward. For some people, it’s helpful to come up with a new focus or passion. Whether this means picking up a new skill, going back to school, earning a therapy degree to help others who are grieving, or signing up for an online class to stay distracted, it’s okay to work toward your own goals as you grieve.

Maybe you’re like many people struggling with the way your family is responding to the loss of a loved one. Going back to school to earn a therapy degree or a degree in something you’re passionate about might be a way to help you begin to move forward. For instance, if you’ve always wanted to get into accounting, there are many programs available that can help you get started. And because online schedules are flexible, you’ll be able to start when the time is right for you. The reality is that having an education behind you when it comes to grief can help you navigate emotions you might not have expected.

Taking Care of Yourself While You Grieve

If you’re in the early stages of grief, it can be a challenge to maintain routines like exercise. Some people have trouble even getting out of bed and dealing with daily hygiene as they grieve a serious loss. If this is you, it’s important to go easy on yourself and take one day at a time. Start by finding ways to get exercise if you hope to improve your energy levels and begin feeling more like yourself. Something as simple as a daily walk can make a big difference. If you’re working, small adjustments like taking the stairs instead of the elevator can help get you back on track.

Reaching Out for Help

Most people benefit from professional mental health support during times of grief. If you’re hesitant about reaching out to a therapist, one way to do it is to schedule an online therapy appointment where you can meet with a professional from the privacy of your home. Not only will you pay less for mental health care, but you’ll also save money on travel and have more therapists to choose from.

You Don’t Need to Grieve Alone

At the end of the day, you don’t have to struggle with grief alone, and the healthiest thing you can do for yourself is to surround yourself with support. If you’re not sure where to start, consider reaching out to a fantastic therapist or therapy group in Upland, such as Winter Solstice Therapy, to help guide you through the stages of grief and give you hope.