The loss of a loved one comes with an intense feeling of loss and anguish. Intense grief makes the griever an emotional and physical wreck who finds it hard to recover. Indeed, without the right support and resources to help cope with grief, some people succumb and follow the deceased.
Symptoms of grief
Every person grieves in a different way. Grief shows itself emotionally and physically as the griever will exhibit symptoms like;
Sadness – The feeling is of emptiness, yearning and having a hole that feels deep and endless
Shock – One cannot believe that the loved has simply gone never to return. The expectation of them to show up lingers and one can get into denial that the inevitable has happened.
Anger- Sometimes there is a feeling that the deceased was unfair to go away and abandon those left behind. Anger can also be directed to those who feel like they are to blame for example doctors, or even God.
Fear – The uncertainty of the future is strong especially if the loved one was a decision maker or the breadwinner. One feels at a loss on how to proceed in life.
Physical symptoms of grief show as reduced weight, lowered immunity, insomnia, and unexplained muscle aches and pains.
Where to get help
Grieving is relieved if one can get the necessary help. The best sources for help are;
Friends and family – Although at times the whole family maybe grieving but there are some who may be stronger than the others and can be relied on for support. Friends are also very good in providing companionship and being a shoulder to lean on.
Therapist /counselor – Seeking help from a mental health professional can help as the therapist will note the different symptoms and treat them.
Faith – Support on one’s faith is a great aid in coping with grief. Reading books of faith like the Bible gives encouragement and boosts morale with inspiring messages.
Support groups – Sometimes sharing what one is feeling together with other people going through the same experience is very therapeutic. Support groups can be found in hospitals, churches, and government departments.
Social media – Sharing grief on social media attracts messages of encouragement and hope and assurance that one is not alone in grief.
Motivational books – Reading inspirational material especially on how to cope with grief can help the grieved try out different ways of coping with grief. They are also able to explain grief better so that the sufferer can identify if it is getting worse or better and seek professional help.
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