Dealing with Grief

It’s part of life. At some point something bad will happen and you’ll have to live with it. Grief is complex. Everyone has their own idea of a loss, and everyone has their own methods of coping. 

One effective way of dealing with grief is to stay busy. It’s tempting just to sit there and mope, but getting out and getting active helps keep your mind focused and gives you something positive to do with both your hands and your thoughts. 

Another great and positive way to cope is to do something for somebody else. You don’t have to dedicate your life to charity. Even something small like helping a friend move or mowing a lawn for an elderly person can get your mind off your troubles for a little while 

Give yourself the time you need. People will tell you to ‘get over it’, but it’s something that’s a lot easier to say than to do. Before you rush out to get ‘back in the saddle’, make sure you’re ready. Like a physical wound, grief can fester if it’s bandaged up before it’s properly healed. 

Don’t let someone else tell you what you should and shouldn’t be grieved over. Sure, someone may have dealt with something more tragic, but they’re not you. Concentrate on what works for you, not someone else.

Grief is natural, not something to be ashamed of. It also can’t be rushed through or shoved aside just because it’s not convenient. Make sure to focus on the positive aspects of your life. You’ll find them if you look. And though it may not seem like it at the time, it will get better.