Regardless of the circumstances, the sudden loss of a loved one is never something a person is able to fully prepare for. Every day, many California families are faced with the relentless grief and emotional strain that accompanies an unexpected death of a family member. Overcoming this sadness and regaining a sense of happiness, while often daunting, is achievable with the right help.
It is important for people to remember that suffering from grief is not a negative thing. In fact, it is a very real and normal part of coping with loss especially when it is unexpected. The New York Times defines complicated grief as the following:
- Invasive thoughts and/or memories
- Penetrating emotional pain
- Difficulty finding meaning
- Denial
The Huffington Post suggests some helpful things people can do in their efforts to effectively deal with a family member’s death. These include the following:
- Proper self-care: It is imperative that grieving people continue to take care of themselves including eating right, getting enough rest and maintaining their nutrition.
- Journaling thoughts: A journal is an excellent way for people to effectively express their thoughts in a way that allows release without destructive behaviors.
- Meditation: People who are suffering may find solace and comfort by taking time to meditate and sit in peace and quiet without any nagging distractions.
- Enjoy nature: The serenity and beauty of nature can be calming for people suffering from an unexpected loss, and it may provide a mood boost by stimulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.
Relying on family can provide grieving people with satisfaction and increased self-esteem as they spend time with the people they love.