5 Ways to Deal with Grief

If you’ve ever heard anything about grief, you’re probably familiar with the five stages in some capacity. There’s denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.

The five stages were originally introduced in the 1960s and have been the main resource for people to use to navigate their journey. Unfortunately, these guidelines tend to be misunderstood and can actually become more of a hindrance. 

Grief doesn’t follow a linear path, but these stages can lead you to believe they do. They should just be a reference point, and not a prescriptive rulebook.

Here are five ways you can deal with your grief that may be helpful. 

1. Allow Yourself to Mourn

Grief is a normal and expected response to a loss, whether it be related to work, a relationship, or a death. Not only is it normal, but it’s also an important part of the grief process. In order to process grief, you need to face what you’re feeling.

The act of mourning is a means of letting your grief out. By feeling the sadness, pain, and discomfort that come with mourning, you are freeing yourself from its chokehold. Rather than avoid them or push them deep inside, let them become an outward expression. 

Sit with your emotions, name them, and maybe even cry some tears. It’s a sign that you’re human, but also a sign that you’re ready to start healing. 

2. Give Yourself Time and Grace

Grief takes time and is a hard roller coaster ride. There is no clear-cut, right or wrong way to grieve. Those five stages are simply reference points, not a linear path or a concrete guidebook. 

The best thing you can do for yourself is to give yourself some grace. This may be a messy, long, and uncomfortable journey, but it’s yours and yours alone. 

Take the time you need, no matter how long it takes. You’re going to feel highs and lows; allow yourself to feel them. Be patient with yourself, and know that the pieces will start to fit together when the time is right. 

3. Remember Your Self-Care

Grief can be a heavy weight to carry. When you’re going through the stages, it can take a mental and physical toll. 

While you’re going through the grief process, be mindful of your routines. Are you getting enough sleep? Are you eating the right foods to keep your body properly fueled? Have you gotten in a fair amount of physical activity? 

Don’t let your health and well-being fall by the wayside because grief is taking over. You can’t expect to be able to process through your grief if your basic needs aren’t being met. 

4. Spend Time with Loved Ones

If there is ever a time to lean on people, this is one of them. Surround yourself with people who will help support you, build you up, and truly want to help. This could be family, friends, people in a support group, or even acquaintances who have gone through a similar situation. 

Make plans to spend time with your circle of people and attend social gatherings outside of the house. As much as taking some time off the grid sounds like it will be helpful, it will actually make the grief sit front and center, and not in a helpful kind of way. 

5. Consider Therapy

For many people, grief is something that passes with time. Sometimes, however, the grief process can become all-consuming. It could be more than you can handle on your own. 

There is no shame in admitting you need a little extra help. Therapy options are available to help guide you along this journey. Even if you’re progressing relatively well, professional resources can still be beneficial. 

If you or someone you know is struggling with the grieving process, we can help. Contact us to learn more about our grief counseling services.