The Grieving Process
The period of grieving after the loss of a loved one can feel both over-bearing and hopeless. To help yourself and your family through this process it is good to know why you feel this way and how you will get through it.
Usual Feelings and Reactions to Loss:
- The feeling of denial or numbness is typical from a person feeling the intensity
of the loss.
- Individuals may ask themselves what they could have done to prevent the loss or what they could have
done to have made the deceased’s life better.
- Crying, lack of energy, concentration and appetite are all typical
signs of post-loss depression.
- Anger may result from feeling helpless or abandoned.
Guidelines that may help you during your time of grief:
- Give yourself time to think about all your thoughts and
feelings.
- Confide in others, those who feel the loss and possibly some who do not.
- Express your feelings openly,
and don’t be afraid to cry.
- If needed, seek out a group that will allow you to share your feelings with others who are feeling the
same way.
- When feeling lost, remember a favorite memory to pull you out of your sorrow.
Additionally, there are other resources that may prove helpful to you depending on your individual circumstances. Consider
contacting your clergy or doctor. Many organizations have support groups or can assist you through the mourning process.
Professional Resources:
www.adec.org - Organization Association for Death Education and Counseling
www.nhpco.org – National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
www.griefnet.org – Internet community of persons dealing with grief
www.centerforloss.com – Center for Loss and Life Transition
Grief felt by a child:
www.grievingchildren.com
www.allkidsgrieve.org