Losing a loved one at any time is difficult, especially when it comes tragically and unexpectedly. This can be particularly true when that person is a spouse, sibling, parent, or other close family member.
Feelings of shock and confusion can be overwhelming that result in bouts of depression and sadness that seem like it will never end. While sadness may diminish with time, the grieving process shouldn’t be overlooked in helping to overcome the feelings of loss and remembering the time you shared with them.
What is a normal time to grieve?
Every person is unique. And how death is handled and coped with may depend on many different things. There is no “normal” time to grieve. Despite many people being familiar with the “five stages” of grief, recent research suggests that most people don’t go through these in progressive steps.
More than likely, the different stages (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) may overlap, with some coming and going or never even appearing. This can be especially true if the relationship with the loved one was complicated or ended with unresolved issues.
The actual length of time to grieve can depend on many different things like age, personality, beliefs, and the social support network the grieving party has. Although it never seems like it at the time, happiness and joy can still return despite the loss.
What are symptoms of grief?
Just as there is no “normal” time to grieve, symptoms of grief are different for everyone. They can manifest in both emotional and physical ways. Feelings of frustration, worry, anxiety, anger, guilt, fatigue, and detachment are all things a grieving party may experience.
This may lead to difficulty sleeping, aches and pains, headaches, loss of appetite, and other behavior that isn’t typical of the person. Depending on the person, all or some of these symptoms may occur as well as some not listed.
Moving on with Life after Loss
Many people have feelings of guilt about moving on without their loved one. But research shows that going through the mourning and grieving process can help be a catalyst for a renewed sense of meaning that helps offer purpose and direction.
Some of the following strategies are found to be useful in helping grieving parties to come to terms with loss:
Discussing the death of your loved one. Denying the death is one of many easy ways people can isolate themselves and frustrate their support system. By talking with friends, family, and colleagues, it can help to remember the lost person.
Taking care of yourself and family. Healthy habits, including exercising and eating well, are easy to ignore during these times. But these along with getting the proper rest and taking care of yourself and family members help to get everyone through each day and move forward.
Accepting feelings. It’s ok to experience and accept a wide range of emotions during a tragedy. People experience sadness, frustration, guilt, anger, exhaustion, and many others.
Talking with others in a similar position. Finding those who have similar experiences with loss can help all grieving parties heal. Being part of a community and sharing brings people closer together and can help everyone to cope.
Celebrate their memory. This can be done in many different ways to celebrate the life of the person who is lost. Passing the name to a new baby, planting a garden in their memory, framing photos, or reflecting on favorite memories. It doesn’t matter what is done as long as it is unique to them and feels special to you.
Treating Grief after Loss
There is nothing wrong with seeking additional help in the grieving process. Prescription medication and counseling services are two types of common treatments. Medication like sedatives, antidepressants, and anti-anxiety medicine can help people with both physical and emotional symptoms of grief.
Professional counseling enables affected parties to access support groups or have personalized guidance through the difficult time.
Although a grieving person can feel very alone, there is always someone there that can help support through this difficult time. Asking for help shouldn’t feel like a burden, but can actually be one of the first steps toward healing.
Wrongful Death Attorney in Sacramento
My name is Dan Hanecak and I am a car accident lawyer in Sacramento, CA. Our firm is here for you during these tough times. We understand just how much this can affect your life.
Unexpectedly losing a loved one is never easy. If you’ve suffered the loss of a loved one and would like to know your options in pursuing a wrongful death claim, please give me a call.
I will be here to offer you free and compassionate advice. Please call me at (916) 619-5452 or fill out the form on our website and I will call you personally.
