Coping with Grief and Loss: A Guide to Healing

Grief is a natural response to loss and it affects individuals in different ways. Understanding the stages of grief and practicing healthy coping strategies can help you navigate the healing process.

According to Elizabeth Kubler-Ross (July 8, 1926 – August 24, 2004), a Swiss-American psychiatrist,  leading expert researcher on grief and loss, and author of the internationally best-selling book, On Death and Dying (1969), we experience five stages of grief: Denial is the initial shock and disbelief of the loss; Anger is the frustration and feeling of injustice; Bargaining is seeking ways to reverse the loss; Depression is the overwhelming sadness and isolation; and Acceptance is the acknowledgement of the reality of the loss and adjusting to life without the person or thing we know longer have.

When you’re caught deep in the overwhelm of grief, strategies for coping with the loss can be difficult to even consider. Let us help you with this.

• Allow yourself to grieve: express emotions and give yourself time.
• Seek support: lean on family and friends for comfort and understanding.
• Engage in self-care: prioritize physical and emotional well-being through exercise, proper nutrition, and rest.
• Maintain routines: structure and familiarity can provide a sense of normalcy.
• Express yourself creatively: art, music, or writing can be therapeutic outlets.
• Honor the memory: celebrate the life of the person or thing lost through rituals or memorials.

Self-Care during bereavement is essential. Consider the following self care practices.

• Practice mindfulness: be present in the moment and accept your feelings without judgment.
• Communicate your needs: express your emotions and seek help when necessary.
• Manage stress: find relaxation techniques that work for you, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
• Stay connected: social support can alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

When normal coping strategies are insufficient, a therapist or counsellor can provide guidance. Consider seeing a licensed mental health counsellor, social worker, or registered psychotherapist who focuses on grief counselling. Symptoms of complicated grief, such as persistent depression or inability to function, may warrant professional intervention. Therapy can offer a safe space to explore emotions, develop coping skills, and find healing.

Coping with grief and loss is a deeply personal journey that requires patience and self-compassion. By understanding the stages of grief, practicing self-care, and seeking support when needed, you can navigate the healing process and find peace.

If you’re experiencing grief due to the loss of a loved one, a pet, a job or career, a relationship, your home, reach out to us to schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate therapists. Call us at (519) 305-5900 or email us at info@brightervisionhealth.ca