Everyone experiences grief in different ways and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. After a loss, there can be a myriad of emotions, including shock, numbness, relief, guilt, despair, anger and even no feeling – all of these are natural and common responses. The grief cycle is not linear and people may move through different stages at different times. Some people may move on quicker than others. There is no set time that it takes people to move through their grief and it’s common to have different experiences and feelings from other people who have experienced loss.
If you are someone who is struggling with grief, below are some strategies that may help you to manage the loss.
1. Exercising Regularly.
- Any physical activity can help you to release energy as a form of grief expression. This could be a long walk in nature, a kickboxing class, or something relaxing and mindful like yoga. Whatever suits you.
2. Make Time to Socialise.
- Try to make a point of going out with friends and not being alone all the time, which can leave you immersed in your grief. Go out for lunch with friends or do some volunteering, perhaps in an area related to how your loved one lost their life.
3. Keeping a Journal.
- Writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal can help you to process grief, but can also be a helpful way to track how your feelings may change over the coming months.
4. Write a Letter to Your Loved One, or Talk to Them Out Loud.
- Sometimes we can get stuck in our grief if there are unresolved issues that may make the loss of your loved one feel emotionally incomplete. The letter may include things like what we have said or not said, things we regret, or things that we need to forgive others for. The letter needs to be completely honest and written as if your loved one were still alive and available to talk to.
5. Create a Memory Box.
- Reminiscing in this way can be a comfort during grief. Spend some time creating a box, decorate it if you like and add old photos, messages/letters, videos taken of your loved one, a scent they liked, some clothing that they wore, food that they liked, anything that reminds you of them. Try to find something for each of your 5 senses, touch, smell, taste, sight, and sound.
6. Schedule in Time to Grieve.
- Putting a specific time in your calendar to grieve can help you process intense emotions. Give yourself permission to cry, scream or wail, whatever you need to do without fear of judgement. You could use your box and then close the lid and put it away again for the next time.
