Courtesy of Justin Black, www.bereaving.net/
Losing a family member or friend is one of the most stressful life events that one experiences. The grieving process is complicated and sometimes lengthy. For some adults, around seven to 10%, according to the American Psychiatric Association, this could turn into prolonged grief disorder, making it difficult to focus and engage in daily activities. Here are some strategies to deal with grief in a healthy way.
Add Exercise to Your Day
Physical activity helps with stress and anxiety management and may help during a time of mourning. Think about ways to add exercise to your day, even if you aren’t up for a fitness class. If you have a busy work schedule, take the stairs instead of the elevator or schedule a walk outside during your lunch break.
Focus on Healthy Foods
What you eat may also affect your healing process. Aim to eat healthy, wholesome meals that you cook instead of fast food or snacks. Avoid binging or other stress eating habits.
Switch Up Your Home Decor
A peaceful home environment also may help you heal. Try decluttering to reduce stress, revamping closet and cabinet spaces or reorganizing rooms to clear away space for more serenity and meditation.
Get Enough Sleep
Grief may have you staying up too late or struggling to fall asleep. Make sure your room is set up for a restful night of sleep and avoid too much caffeine and screen time at night so you can wind down.
Change Your Career Path
Life is short, so make everything count, including your job. If you want a more fulfilling career, consider making a change. Revise your resume with a free online resume builder. Make your resume more professional and eye-catching with a library of professional designs you can use. Add colors, images and photos to help stand out.
Spend Time With Loved Ones
During your time of grief, help yourself heal by spending more time with loved ones. Take time to remember the person who passed by sharing memories, photos and stories. Celebrate their birthday and important anniversaries with your support system.
Get a New Pet
Another way to help cope with loss is to adopt a new pet. For people who have lost a spouse, this may help fill the loneliness void that comes with that loss. Research the type of pet, breed and care requirements before adopting. Consider rescuing a shelter dog or cat in your community.
Go Back to School
This may also be a good time to invest in your education and take classes. During the healing process, consider signing up for enrichment or academic classes to further your career. It may help occupy your mind and process your grief.
Practice More Spirituality
Religious practices may also help you deal with your grief during a loss. Consider meeting up with your rabbi or another spiritual advisor to get counseling or advice about your feelings. Learn more about the customs for death for a new outlook.
Start Journaling
Finally, journaling can also be a beneficial activity for your healing journey. Writing about your feelings may help you process them more effectively.
Losing someone special can trigger a powerful grief response. If you are struggling with healing after the death of a family member or friend, live a healthy lifestyle and try these healing strategies to maintain your physical and emotional well-being.
Star of David Memorial Chapels provides dignified and compassionate funeral services. Call 631-454-9600 to learn more.