When you have a loved one pass away, it can be comforting to celebrate the life they led and know that death is a natural part of the life cycle. Yet, the grieving process can seem unbearable. However, while there are no magic pills or strategies to erase the pain and make your circumstances less devastating, there are coping methods worth trying to help you move forward and eventually get back to a healthy routine. Read on for some ideas from South Coast Family Funeral Services.
Cope the Best You Can
There is no perfect way to cope with the death of a loved one, but, as Verywell Family notes, there are strategies that have proven to help. For instance, be sure to stay close to your family and friends throughout the process, as they will provide you with essential support during challenges.
Also, look for professional counselors or therapists in your area with whom you can connect. Even if you do not feel you need these services, they can prove invaluable in the long run. An online therapist is worth looking into, as you’ll be able to access a wider array of licensed professionals. Online therapy is also often more affordable than in-person counseling, and it saves you transportation time which makes it easier to fit into your schedule.
Moreover, when people want to help you, let them. Accept help when it comes to household tasks, meals, and any other responsibilities you juggle each day. And check your resources to find a support group that specializes in your type of grief; simply being in the same room with other survivors can be comforting and provide wisdom for navigating the road ahead.
Eterneva points out that you must try to maintain your health, as well. Along with eating nutritious foods, try to exercise a little bit each day. Even 20 minutes of physical activity can do wonders for boosting your mood, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving your overall health and wellbeing.
On the financial side, the loss of a loved one can cause monetary as well as emotional stress. For some, paying off funeral expenses a little at a time can actually prolong the grieving process, so if you’re facing substantial debt, cash-out refinancing could be just what you need to move on more quickly.
Evaluate Your Career
At some point, you will need to start thinking about how you will transition back into the workforce. One option is to create your own business. If you have a passion for a particular industry, product, or service, turning it into a company could allow you to earn an income while also occupying your time and giving you something to focus on.
You will need to have a clear vision, research the market to confirm demand for your idea and make a thorough plan for proceeding. You’ll also need to determine how to structure your business. There are numerous benefits of forming Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) including limited liability, tax advantages, less paperwork, and flexibility. States have different regulations around forming an LLC, so check the rules in your state before moving ahead.
Starting a business is not your only option. If you enjoyed the work you did before, it might be worth returning to your job or at least staying in the same industry. There is no formula for the best time to go back to work after losing a child. Just make sure that you have allowed yourself time to grieve and don’t expect to start back at work without challenges. You may find it challenging to focus, and it might be tough to see your coworkers again. But keep in mind that working is an essential part of rebuilding your life.
Going back to school can be another good distraction with a larger purpose. There are many different programs that can help you to progress in your career or start your own business. This page deserves a look if you are interested in something business related, like finance, business analysis, leadership, or marketing. Or you could pursue a degree in counseling or psychology, which could help you process your own loss and move into a career where you help others do the same.
Find a Creative Outlet
Finally, make sure you have an outlet for expressing your thoughts and emotions during this devastating time. Staying bottled up will only cause more problems down the road. Finding a creative outlet for your grief can prevent unrelated destructive emotions from accumulating. It can also help keep you from developing harmful coping habits in search of peace. Moreover, using a writing journal, sketchpad, or another outlet to write out your grief is an excellent way to honor the memory of your loved one.
Be Kind to Yourself Through Your Grief
There is nothing worse than losing someone near and dear to your heart. And while there aren’t any easy ways out of your devastation, there are steps you can take to cope and build back your life. Consider the information and advice above as you process your grief, and keep looking for other ways to pave a way forward.
We at South Coast Family Funeral Services are sorry for your loss. We offer a full range of funeral services, whether for a traditional funeral or cremation, and will support you through these processes. Contact us at 888-607-0772 to speak with one of our caring staff members.