Coping with Grief and Loss

Grief is a deeply personal experience that touches everyone at some point in life. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a pet, a relationship, or even a job, grief can arrive in waves. What’s important to remember is that there’s no “right” way to grieve. Your emotions, your timeline, and your healing process are uniquely yours.

Some people find comfort in keeping busy, while others need quiet time to reflect. You might feel sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, or even relief, and all of those emotions are normal. Grief doesn’t follow a straight line. It may ebb and flow, and some days will feel heavier than others. That’s okay. Healing is not about forgetting; it’s about learning to live with loss in a way that allows joy to return. Continue reading for some strategies to navigate grief.

See also: Empty Nest, Full Heart: Strategies for Parents in Transition

Allow Yourself to Feel

Your emotions won’t go away by ignoring them. Give yourself permission to feel what comes, even if it’s uncomfortable. Cry, write, talk, pray — whatever helps you express your emotions in a healthy way. Sharing your thoughts with a trusted friend, family member, or counselor can lighten the weight you’re carrying. You might also consider joining a support group such as GriefShare, where you’ll find others who understand what you’re going through.

Take Care of Your Health

Grief affects both the mind and the body. You may feel physically exhausted, lose your appetite, or find it hard to sleep. During this time, it’s essential to care for yourself even when it feels difficult. Try to eat nourishing meals, stay hydrated, and rest when you can. Gentle movement like a walk outside or some light stretching can also help reduce stress and improve your mood. Remember, tending to your body supports your emotional healing too.

Don’t Set a Timeline

There’s no expiration date on grief. It’s natural to want to “get over it,” but healing doesn’t happen on a schedule. You may feel progress one day and deep sorrow the next. Give yourself the grace to move through your emotions at your own pace. Over time, you’ll find moments of peace and even joy begin to reappear, and that’s a sign of growth, not forgetting.

When Grief Feels Too Heavy

Even years after a loss, you may be caught off guard by memories like an anniversary, a song, or a scent that bring emotions rushing back. These reminders are part of your ongoing connection to what you’ve lost. But if your grief starts to feel too overwhelming, or if you find it hard to manage daily life, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health professionals and support groups are trained to guide you through this process and help you find healthy ways to cope.

Support When Coping with Grief

You don’t have to face loss alone. There are many organizations and communities dedicated to helping people through grief, such as:

• The Compassionate Friends – Support for families who have lost a child.

• AARP Grief and Loss Resources – Tools and articles for older adults navigating loss.

• National Widower’s Organization – Peer support for men coping with the death of a spouse or partner.

• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) – Resources for those affected by suicide loss.

• TAPS.org – Support for military families grieving a loss.

  
  

Grief changes over time, but with care and connection you can begin to heal. Be patient with yourself, honor your emotions, and remember that even in loss, hope and love remain.