How to Manage Grief

Humans experience grief in response to loss; it can result from the loss of a dearly loved one or from the loss of a job. Quite often, we associate grief with emotional responses, including shock and sadness and anger, but it can also have physical symptoms, most commonly sleeplessness and a weakened immune system. Each of us experiences grieving in her own way. Circumstances may even make it possible for us to put off our grieving, but never doubt that at some point in time, it will surface, and when it does, it is important that we manage our grief in a healthy way.

Things You'll Need

• Support of others
• Patience with yourself
• Time to heal

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Instructions

• 1

  The single most important tool in managing grief is the support of others. It is important to be near to people who care about you and your welfare. Talk with them, share your sorrow and your happy memories. Let them help you through your grief.

• 2

  Keep a journal. Pour out your heart and soul on paper, then go back, read what you have written, and spend some quiet time reflecting on your words.

• 3

  Join a support group. Although no one will have the same experience with grief that you have, others have lost a child, a spouse, a parent. Come together with them and be part of the circle of support that you all need to manage your grief.

• 4

  Tend to your own physical well-being. It can be difficult to force yourself to eat well and go to bed at night, but especially when you have others relying on you, you must do your best to stay healthy.

• 5

  Be patient and kind with yourself. Give yourself time to heal. Try to be honest with yourself about your emotional state, and if your feelings of grief worsen, leading to depression or other illnesses, accept that you may need the help of a health care professional, including formal grief counseling.