What It Really Takes to Navigate the Feelings of Loss in Life

Navigating the feelings of loss in life is deeply personal, but of course, it’s an overwhelming journey. When we lose someone, the experience of grief we feel is incredibly unique, but learning to lighten the burden and support the healing process is pivotal.

Understanding what it really takes to move through loss can provide reassurance for yourself or others during these difficult times, so what is it that we need to do to navigate this?

This is a contributed post.

EMBRACE THE PRACTICAL PREPARATIONS

The early days after a loss are filled with various emotions, from emotional shocks to immediate administrative responsibilities. Tasks like making funeral arrangements can feel daunting, but tending to these practical matters can offer some structure and a focus point when everything else feels uncertain. Allowing yourself to accept help with logistics, paperwork, or decision-making will lighten the load, but it also means that you’ve got some space to process everything.

GIVE YOURSELF PERMISSION TO GRIEVE

True healing will begin with acknowledging that your feelings are valid, whatever form they take. Suppressing sadness, anger, or confusion is counterproductive, and we should remember that setting aside judgments about how we should be coping and focusing on accepting the reality of the loss means that we are not suppressing emotions that we may view as counterproductive. Giving yourself as much time as you need without any schedule is vital.

BUILD A SUPPORT NETWORK

Loss often leaves people feeling isolated, which is why connection becomes a vital lifeline. Reaching out to anybody who can listen and empathize is hard, but sometimes simply knowing that you’re not alone in your experiences can be very soothing. Sometimes we can find talking difficult, but if that is the case, then consider writing or creative activities to express our feelings.

GIVE YOURSELF SIMPLE SELF-CARE

A very simple thing, but almost hard to put into practice when we’re going through difficult stages in life. Grief or the feeling of loss can mean that we neglect basic wellness, and when our physical and mental reserves are at their lowest, we should make small, intentional choices to do very basic things like eating nourishing food, getting enough rest, and gently moving our bodies. It’s all relative, because even light exercise, mindful breathing, or a quiet walk can help to restore some sense of calm and control.

SEEK PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT

If the intensity of grief feels unmanageable, perhaps a therapist or a grief counselor can ensure that you have some additional coping strategies, a safe space to talk, and reassurance that you’re not failing in your journey toward healing. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness!

Above all else, you need to be compassionate with yourself throughout this process. Losing something is not about linear grieving or emotions. You should expect those ups and downs. Some days will feel heavier than others, and it’s okay to accept help or acknowledge your feelings without judgment, and if you feel like you need a comfort day, then yes, giving yourself that is vital as well. Giving yourself room to grieve, heal, and remember will mean that you gradually find steady ground.