Taking Care of Yourself

In order to help yourself while experiencing grief, consider the following:

Recognize that you must yield to the painful process of grief.  Experiencing and releasing the feelings of grief are a healing part of the process. Here are some suggestions that may help:

• Talk with a safe listener
• Keep a journal of thoughts and feelings
• Write a letter to the deceased

It is understandable that you would wish to avoid the pain of grief. This is natural. But consider the following:
Allowing yourself to experience your feelings can empower you to go on with your life in a healthy manner.

Be patient with yourself.

• Accept your limitations
• Find ways to reduce your life stressors
• Remember that your grief is unique
• Avoid comparing yourself to others who have experienced loss.
• Continue to educate yourself on grief process and grief work

Find ways to replenish yourself through:

• Prayer or meditation
• Join a support group
• Rest
• Music and art
• Exercise

Give yourself permission to take breaks from your grief through temporary escapes from reality such as:

• Books
• Movies
• Humor
• A vacation
  

Give yourself quiet time alone.  Take time to reflect on your feelings. Review your relationship by:

• Reviewing photo albums
• Creating a story of your relationship

Avoid making major changes.
Avoid making major decisions or changes for one year if possible. If not, enlist the support of an objective person.

Make your health a priority.

• Listen to your body.
• Remember there are physical aspects of grief.
• Eat a balanced diet, exercise,and rest.
• Get appropriate medical attention when needed.
• Drink water.

Suggestions for special events or days.

• Have a plan.
• Feel free to change traditions.
• Remember to include children in plans.

Other Suggestions
Seek support from a grief counselor, support group, friends or a minister.