Surviving the death of a love one is one of the hardest experiences a person will encounter in their lifetime. The event or experience itself is horrifying. One that we wish we never had to experience but we know is inevitable. So, when we go through the unfortunate loss of a loved one, it is very common to feel that we will never survive the experience.
When one has lost a loved one in death it is normal for the surviving family and friends to go through a grieving period. Typically, most individuals go through the five stages of grief which are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Nothing will completely wipe away the feelings of loss, emptiness, and the sadness that accompanies dealing with death, but when the following tools are implemented many have found they can endure this process a little easier each day at a time.
This article was written to empower those who have lost love ones with strategies to stand in the shadows bravely with an eye on the light at the end of the tunnel. Following are 5 steps and strategies to keep in mind when grieving from the death of a loved one.
- Acknowledge that it is okay to grieve the loss of a love one. Grieving is the first step to healing the womb or the figurative hole left in the heart of those left behind by the loved one’s death. Allow yourself time to dig deep into that pain knowing that in order to get to a place of peace within yourself you must first grieve.
- Understand that there is no such thing as “getting over” grief! Know that time will heal the pain. It sounds simple and we may have heard this said on many occasions, but it is true. Time will heal the pain and with the support of others, the grief will soften.
- Know that you are not alone! Others like yourself have gone through or may be going through the same experience you are. Finding a support group or garnering support from your family or friends will provide the help you need. Seeking outside help may be necessary when looking for support through this trying time as it will provide you with a venue to express your feelings in a safe space.
- Be patient. Know that it can take months, even years, to absorb a major loss especially one that has changed or altered your life. Being patient with yourself and the process allows you to embrace each stage as you go through the grieving process.
- Lastly, honor your loved one by spending time thinking of the good memories you have of the person. Allow yourself time to laugh at those funny moments. Rejoice that you were blessed to have had the time spent with the person which now has provided you wonderful memories to reflect upon.
As you go through your day-to-day routine, there will be many reminders of the person that may stop you or your thoughts in your tracks. This may even happen often at first. Embrace those moments. Know that you may need to revisit strategy number one and work your way through strategy number five. These moments will happen less and less as time go by. Continue to hold on to those joyful memories of time spent with your loved one. In time, your grief will soften.