How could God do this to me? How am I going to get through this? What am I going to do now? Am I losing my mind? Grievers experience many different feelings, physical sensations, thoughts and behaviors surrounding grief, some of them unfamiliar. They sometimes think something is wrong with them. Often people feel like they "just can't get it together." They feel like they are not themselves. And they aren't. What was normal prior to the loss is no longer normal, and their new "normal" hasn't been established yet. It is a time of anxiety, “what ifs,” loneliness, and disorientation. Grieving requires a lot of energy at a time when exhaustion has taken over.
 

The following tips can help to create and maintain the energy level that grieving requires:
 

• Eat nourishing meals; have healthy snacks on hand
• Exercise, even if just walking around the block
• Be gentle and patient with yourself; this is a time of huge transition
• Connect/reconnect with a faith group
• Read articles and books on coping with grief
• Journal to identify and clarify feelings and track progress
• Plan ahead for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
• Share your feelings with family and friends (this gives them permission to do the same)
• Join a grief support group at your local hospice or church

Research shows a caring, supportive presence is the single most helpful thing for someone who is experiencing grief. Many people who are grieving do not necessarily feel that they need counseling, but they need help in working through this period of transition. This is a time when a life coach can be invaluable.
 

Lisa Millay, MA, LMHC is a life coach who deals with life transitions. She would be happy to provide a free telephone consultation. For more information call 321-863-2306 or email [email protected].