Grieving is a part of the circle of life. Grief can be a painful emotion. It can feel like it swallows you whole at some points. There are several different types of grieving. Here are seven tips for a different kind of grieving.
7 Tips for a Different Kind of Grieving
When a loved one has passed, the absence is obvious. But, what about when someone you love is slowly fading away? What if they are there, but not there really? How do you grieve for someone who is still here and at the same time, not let your life come to a complete stop? There are different names for these types of grief, anticipatory grief, frozen grief, and ambiguous grief.
1. Never Pressure Yourself or Others
Many people might think that you should just move on, but there is no closure for this type of grieving. It’s something that you have to learn to cope with differently than the “standard” grief.
2. Be Kind to Yourself
These feelings are normal. What’s not normal is if these feelings overwhelm you to the point of no longer functioning, or if you’re trying to escape these feelings through harmful behaviors. In these situations, you should seek the help of a professional.
3. Look for Support
Around you, you have friends and family who will love you and create a safe space for you to express yourself.
4. Boundaries
It can be tough to set boundaries, especially if those around you are well-intentioned, but when someone comes in and tells you what to do with your grief, that’s when you need to put your foot down.
5. Self Care
Loss and heartache can take their toll, so it’s important to take a few minutes for yourself. Exercise, meditation, journaling, and more can help. Schedule some time in your daily life to allow yourself to take a break.
6. Ask and Accept Help
It can be hard when you are trying to be strong to allow a helping hand, but it will ultimately be good for you. It can be small things like friends help with laundry or make you a dinner you can microwave throughout the week. Let them take some of these small tasks off your hands.
7. Allow Grief to Have Space, But Don’t Let It Take Over
It’s important that you allow your grief to breathe, but don’t let it take over your entire life.
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