Ways to Navigate Grief
As we live long enough, we will all encounter the death of a loved one, as death is a part of life. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 reminds us, “There is a time for everything…a time to be born and a time to die.” Grief is a common but uniquely personal response to such loss.
August 30th is National Grief Awareness Day
It’s worth the effort to understand the grief process and ways to navigate it. Here are several helpful hints to keep in mind if you are experiencing grief:
There are no rules. Everyone handles grief differently. Some move on quickly, while others struggle longer. Some seek comfort from others, while others prefer solitude. There is no set process to follow.
Allow others to help you. While it’s tempting to be stoic or avoid being a burden, this is a suitable time to accept help. Let others manage errands and tasks while you focus on yourself.
Experience your feelings. Rather than distract yourself from your feelings, experience your feelings. Just sit with them and explore them. Allow yourself to feel whatever you’re feeling. They won’t go away until you’ve allowed them to express themselves.
Be patient. Grief takes its own time; there’s no set duration. It varies for everyone, so be prepared for it to take some time.
Maintain your most enjoyable activities. Continue engaging in your favorite activities. They can offer a positive distraction and help maintain enjoyment and social interaction.
Get professional help if you need it. This is VITAL! While some people manage to find their way through grief without professional help, others need help. There’s no shame in getting the help you require. If possible, consult a Christian counselor to receive both therapeutic support and spiritual guidance.
Ultimately, God is prepared to offer both healing and comfort. Consider reflecting on Matthew 5:4: “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”