Grief is a natural response to loss. You may experience all kinds of emotions, from shock or anger to disbelief, guilt, and sadness.
The process of grieving a loss is an inevitable part of life, however, there are ways to deal with the pain, come to terms with loss, and eventually, begin to move forward. These are our tips:
1. Support yourself emotionally by taking care of yourself physically.
2. Accept loneliness. However, it’s important not to get too isolated
3. Seek out face-to-face support from people who care about you.
4. Get extra rest. Physical and emotional exhaustion is common. You will need more rest than usual.
5. Set a regular sleep schedule. Make it a goal to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day.
6. Get up and walk around, preferably outside, at least a little each day.
7. Recognize the difference between grief and depression. Talk to your doctor if you feel it may be depression.
8. Keep structure in your day. Get dressed and eat small, regular meals, even if you are not hungry and not planning on going out.
9. Give yourself time. Accept your feelings and know that grieving is a process.
10. Return to your hobbies. Get back to the activities that bring you joy.
Seek support or professional help If you’re experiencing; persistent intense feelings of sadness and despair, feelings of hollowness, feelings of hopelessness, thoughts of harming yourself.
Seek help lines:
• Lifeline offer 24-hour crisis support – 13 11 14
• Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement — bereavement counselling and support services. Call 1800 642 066.
• MensLine Australia — 24 hours, 7 days. Call 1300 78 99 78.
• If you need to know more about grief, and to get advice on what to do next, you can also call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak with a registered nurse, 24 hours, 7 days a week
Visit our blog: https://GIHC.com.au/blog for more.
For information about our services visit our website, Call us on (03) 9863 6149 or 1300 912 155 after hours, email us at [email protected]
