Nobody ever wants to think about the possibility of what to do if they lose someone close to them. But, unfortunately, it is something that will happen for some people. If you or someone you know has experienced this type of loss, here are 10 tips to help you handle grief and move on with your life after the death of a loved one.
Remember that grieving is natural, and there’s no set timetable on when you should be over it; instead, focus on taking care of yourself while also following these steps.
1. Allow Yourself Time to Process Your Feelings
It’s perfectly okay to feel a wide range of emotions after this type of loss occurs. Be patient with yourself and give yourself the time to process your feelings.
This can be done in several ways, including writing in a journal, calling someone close to you, taking a walk, or meditating. You may also choose to spend time by yourself and take it easy for a few days.
2. Possibly Reach Out for Professional Counseling
If you feel like your mental state has deteriorated due to the loss you’re experiencing, then consider reaching out for professional counseling. Counseling can help provide support and promote healing and will be an excellent step that can help you get through this difficult time in your life.
3. Learn from the Deceased’s Perspective
After someone passes away, you’re likely to feel a wide range of emotions, like anger and sadness. However, these are not the best emotions to have after a loved one’s death. Instead, learn from the deceased’s perspective and develop compassion for their memory and loss. This will help you move on with your life instead of staying stuck in feeling anger over what happened.
4. Find a Hobby or Get Involved in Activities that Bring Joy into Your Life
Some people find it helpful to start new hobbies or join community activities such as a book club to keep them focused on something positive after losing someone close to them.
5. Keep the Deceased’s Memory Alive Through Your Life
Even if you feel like you no longer want to keep alive the memory of the deceased by thinking about them, it is important to keep a few things from their life. An example of this could be keeping their favorite foods in your fridge or taking a photo every day that makes you smile. You can also pray for them as often as you like and do things together on a special day, such as having a picnic or barbecue with family and friends.
6. Surround Yourself with Happy Memories of Your loved Ones
When you’re feeling down and need something to cheer you up, try to find happy memories of the deceased. Keep these memories alive in your life by keeping a photo of them on your desk or giving the memory a special place in your heart. This will help you appreciate that they were there for you when they were alive and will remind you how much they meant to you during this difficult time.
7) Try to Keep Hope Alive
Think about what’s important in your life right now, as well as how it will change after all this is over. If you believe that you’ll be better off in the future without all the negative emotions you’re feeling now, then do everything you can to hold on to that.
8) Remember that Time Heals
The time will come when this grief will fade away, and you’ll be able to enjoy life again as normal. However, for now, it is important only to focus on yourself and get better each day as fast as possible so you can move on with your life.
9) Don’t Let Yourself Become Paralyzed by Emotions
If you’re having a hard time moving on after the death of someone close to you, consider getting rid of unnecessary items or other things around your house that may remind you of that person. There is no set timetable for when you should be over the loss, nor is there a way to completely forget about them and move forward. However, it is important to do your best to move on with your life and try not to let this get in the way.
10) Seek Relief for Your Pet
People also cope with the loss of their beloved pets. Some people find it helpful to have their beloved pet euthanized. This can be done through an in-home euthanasia veterinarian, who is able to put your pet down if they are suffering from an illness or injury. This is an option that some consider because it provides a sense of closure and helps them find peace after the loss.
Conclusion
Grief and loss need to be accepted and worked through. It is perfectly normal to feel helpless and angry at times, but this doesn’t mean you should not try your best to get better. Keep in mind that there is no timetable for when you should be over the loss, but it will come eventually. If you’re unsure how to get over a loved one or feel like you have lost control, reach out for professional counseling.
Tracie Johnson is a New Jersey native and an alum of Penn State University. Tracie is passionate about writing, reading, and living a healthy lifestyle. She feels happiest when around a campfire surrounded by friends, family, and her Dachshund named Rufus.
I’m dealing with the loss of a parent and having a dog has helped me more than anything.
Hugs.