Coping With Loss

Understanding and accepting the complexity of grief

With the recent passing of Queen Elizabeth, I thought I would take some time to write about grief. I’ve heard so many family, finds and clients share their sadness and loss at her passing, with many saying she was a constant in their life, a grandmother figure who they admired, loved, and will miss.

Of course, many people will again realise how fragile life and loved ones are. It certainly makes you think of your older family members or those who are ill, plus also sends your thoughts to loved ones who are no longer with us, making the loss feel even deeper and even more personal.

Death is the cycle of life.
Grief is a natural and normal response to loss.

It is the emotional suffering that one experiences after the death of a loved one or the loss of something that was important to them. Grief is a complex and personal experience, and everyone processes grief differently.
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There are no right or wrong ways to grieve, but there are healthy ways to cope with grief that can help you through the process.

Here are some tips for dealing with grief:

1. Allow yourself to feel your emotions. It is natural to feel a range of emotions after a loss, including sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety. It is important to allow yourself to feel these emotions and to express them in a healthy way, whether that be through talking with a therapist, writing in a journal, or spending time with supportive friends and family.
2. Take care of yourself. Grieving can be physically and emotionally draining, so it is important to take care of yourself. This may include getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that you enjoy.
3. Seek support. Grief can be a very isolating experience, and it is important to have a support system to help you through this difficult time. Consider speaking with a therapist, or spending time with friends and family who can provide emotional support.
4. Find meaning in the loss. It can be helpful to find meaning in the loss by finding ways to honour and remember the person or thing that you have lost. This may be through creating a memorial, participating in a favourite hobby or activity, or finding a way to give back to others in honour of the person you have lost.
5. And if you like me believe in Heaven,  I hope that you can take some comfort in knowing that your loved ones are safe, are loved, are being looked after, and that you will see them again.