Coping with a loss can be a difficult and painful process, and is one of the biggest challenges anyone can face in their life. While grieving a loss is an inevitable part of life, there are ways to help cope with the pain, come to terms with grief, and eventually, find a way to pick up the pieces and move on with life.
Grieving is an important process in coping with loss. Some people might be too scared to face these feelings, so they avoid or deny the loss. Avoidance can result in negative thoughts and feelings that never go away until they are dealt with. Acceptance of a loss can help reduce grief and mourning over time.
Healthy coping includes:
- Sharing memories of a loved one
- Self-reflection & meditation
- Talking with others about the loss
- Focusing on positive emotions brought on by the relationship
IMPORTANT: It is okay to reach out and seek professional help to overcome a loss. No one should feel reluctant or afraid to reach out to a professional such as a therapist or counselor.
(Smith et al., 2019)
