Different types of grief
It's hard to categorize any kind of grief as "normal" or abnormal, because the way you grieve after the loss of someone or something that is important to you is unique. There are many types of grief, however, that do not fit the above-described symptoms and reactions. These are:
Anticipatory grief
Preventive grief is a form of grieving that occurs before a loss. You may begin grieving your loss if a loved one is in imminent danger of dying, such as if your retirement is near.As with conventional grief, anticipatory grieving can be a mixture of emotions, especially anger. Some people mistakenly believe that anticipatory grief is a refusal to accept their loss and give up on hope. Anticipatory grief, on the other hand, can help you prepare for your loss, deal with any unfinished business or say your final goodbyes.
Disenfranchised grief
If your loss is stigmatized or devalued, disenfranchised grief may occur. People may try to minimize the grief caused by the loss of a job or a pet. If you have suffered a miscarriage or lost a loved person to suicide, you may feel ashamed.If your relationship with a deceased person is not recognized, disenfranchised grieving can also happen. For example, some people might not feel comfortable grieving for a classmate, colleague, or neighbor. You may not be able to express the same empathy and understanding as a family member or close friend. This can make it more difficult to grieve and come to terms.
Complex grief
Although the pain from a significant loss will never disappear completely, it should gradually ease over time. If it doesn't, and it prevents you from returning to your normal life and relationships, it could be a sign that you are experiencing complicated grief.The death of a close friend or family member can cause complicated grief. It is possible to feel helpless or incapable of accepting the loss of a loved one.
If you are experiencing complex grief or the pain of your loss is not resolved, it is important to seek out support and to take the steps to heal.
Support for grieving and loss
Sometimes the pain of grieving can cause you to retreat from your loved ones and withdraw into your shell. Face-to-face support is crucial for healing from loss. It doesn't matter if you don't feel comfortable sharing your emotions in normal circumstances; it is important to grieve.Although sharing your loss can help make the grief burden easier, it doesn't mean you should talk to your family and friends about your loss every interaction. You can find comfort in being around people who care about you. It is important not to isolate.
Reach out to family and friends. Even if you are proud of your independence and strength, now is the time to reach out to them. Instead of avoiding them, make friends with your loved ones, spend time together, and be open to receiving their assistance. People often want to help, but don't know how. Tell them what you need, whether it's a listening ear or a shoulder to cry on. It's never too late to make new friends if you don't feel like you have someone you can connect with regularly in person.
It's normal to feel awkward while trying to comfort someone grieving. You may find them unsure of how to comfort you, and they might end up saying or doing wrong things. Don't let this be a reason to withdraw into your shell or avoid social contact. It's not because they care that a friend or loved ones reaches out to them.
Find comfort in your faith. Take comfort in the mourning rituals of your religious tradition. You can find solace in spiritual activities that are meaningful to your soul, such as prayer, meditation, and going to church. Talk to clergy members or other religious leaders if you are questioning your faith after the loss.
Get involved in a support group. Even if you have family and friends, grief can be lonely. It can be helpful to share your grief with other people who have suffered similar losses. You can contact your local hospices, funeral homes, counseling centers or hospitals to find a support group for bereavement.
Seek out a counselor or therapist if your grief is too overwhelming. Find a professional who has experience in grief counseling. A therapist with experience in grieving can help you deal with intense emotions and overcome any obstacles.
Use social media responsibly
Social media is a great way to let others know your loss and reach out for support. It can attract Internet trolls, who may post insensitive, abusive, or inappropriate messages. You can save yourself pain and heartache by limiting your social media use to closed group posts rather than public ones that are open to comment.
Take care of you as you grieve
It's important to take care of your health and well-being when you are grieving. Stress from a major loss can quickly drain your energy and emotional resources. This time will be easier if you take care of your emotional and physical needs.
Accept your emotions. It is possible to try to hide your grief forever, but it is impossible to do so. To heal, you must acknowledge your pain. Avoiding sadness and loss will only make the grief process more difficult. Unresolved grief may also cause complications like depression, anxiety substance abuse and other health issues.
Write down your feelings and thoughts in a journal. You can also use scrapbooking or volunteering to help a cause that is related to your loss.
Keep your hobbies and interests. Getting back to activities that bring you joy can help you to come to terms and support the grieving process.
Do not let anyone tell your how to feel. Your grief is yours, and no one can tell you when to "move on" from it. It's fine to get angry, to shout at the heavens, and to cry. It's okay to have fun, to enjoy moments of joy, as well as to laugh when necessary.
Take care of your body. Mind and body are interconnected. You will be able to deal with emotions better if you are healthy. You can combat stress and fatigue by getting enough rest, eating right, exercising , and getting enough sleep. Avoid using alcohol or other drugs to alleviate grief and improve your mood.
Be prepared for "triggers" of grief. Holidays, anniversaries, and other important milestones can trigger painful memories and emotions. It's normal to feel overwhelmed and be prepared for it. It's possible to plan ahead, such as by making sure you aren't alone or marking your loss with creativity.
