How to Overcome the Fear of Loss

The fear of loss can be a debilitating force, one that can be both physically and emotionally damaging to those afflicted. People are attached and dependent, for better or worse, to the people, places and material object's that define their lives. Individuals fear losing these things because they believe that without them they are nothing, that they would simply cease to be. However, there are methods for coping and alleviating such fear. When applied astutely and effectively, these methods can help prevent the fear of loss and make life more enjoyable.

Instructions

• 1

  Write a top 10 list of things you most fear losing, from most to least. Think about why you fear losing these things, why they are so valuable and what the repercussions of losing them would mean. Come to grips with the fact that nothing lasts forever, that all will be eventually lost. Take comfort in the impermanence of life. Perhaps such an understanding will yield positive results. Remember that you can't take it with you.

• 2

  Read stories or memoirs from individuals who have experienced loss in a major and dramatic way. Learn from these stories methods to develop the affability and belief that survivors possess, which is the understanding that no matter what happens life goes on. Learn from the experiences of others, particularly how they coped and overcame loss. Understand that loss and tragedy are necessary parts of life, but that they don't have to be the defining parts.

• 3

  Consult a priest, clergy member, therapist or other licensed medical or mental health professional. Join a support group or a community of those who share your fears and anxieties about loss. At times, it seems that such fears only require conversation as a remedy. Talk to someone you trust about the fear of loss, its foundations and effects. Fear many times stems from loneliness and so a community may be the right tool for overcoming your fear of loss.