Tips to deal with loss

I put out a variation of this post every now and then with tips to deal with loss. Sometimes it’s on the heels of me losing someone in my life and sometimes it’s when I’ve seen others post about grieving a loved one. I’m having a hard time dealing with the loss of a friend last week to suicide. I wonder what more could I have done to help. He was a kind soul and his last words to me two weeks ago will forever play in my mind.

We all experience loss during our lives, the loss of people we love, relationships, jobs or health. It could be a combination of many things. Now, during the pandemic is a time many people are going through one or more of these. Each person’s pattern of grieving is unique.  There isn’t one successful way to do it but there are ways to minimize the intensity of your pain.

Some ways to deal with loss

Laugh and remember good times. I know some think laughter during times of grieving is not appropriate. But I think it is very important. Most of us appreciate a good laugh. It distracts us and helps to make us feel better. Humor is a powerful and effective way to heal anger and pain, and it can connect people during difficult times. If you’re grieving the loss of someone close to you, remember the good times. It’s so important. Celebrate their life as they lived it.

Find support from caring people. Family or friends can provide critical support in the days and months following a loss. It’s the period where you will need it the most.

Share grief with those close to it. For example, if it is death, go to the funeral or memorial service to be with people who feel the same. I learned my lesson the hard way from missing my best friend’s as a child.

A professional counselor or support group can also provide comfort and guidance.  You can interact with others who have had similar experiences and who understand and accept them. A financial advisor can provide additional support if you’re going through job loss.

Take enough time.  It’s hard to predict a reasonable grieving timeline.  It may take you longer than expected, so be patient.

Let your feelings out.  Allow yourself to feel sad, angry or any other emotions that come up.

Take care of your physical health. Stress can take a toll on your health, so exercise regularly and eat well. Both can also help your emotional well-being. For example, exercise releases hormones that can improve your mood.

Practice relaxation exercises. Deep breathing, meditation, and visualization are all helpful.

Stay active and busy. Doing this can help you stick to your routine as well as establish a new one if you need. Don’t cancel plans to stay home instead.

Keep busy during times that remind you of your loss (for example, birthdays and holidays). Spend this time with others.

Reach out for help.  Let others know when you need company and support.  Meeting with a counselor can also be helpful.

These are just some of the ways you can help relieve some of the pain that comes with loss. Do you have any tips to help deal with loss that you have found have worked for you that you don’t mind sharing?

Learn some more tips for coping through difficult times.

Header photo credit: Tim Thompson Films