As we enter the pandemic/post-pandemic period with mask mandates being reduced, more individuals receiving vaccines, various places of business reopening, and the ability to do things we may not have done since pre-COVID, many may feel things are returning to somewhat of a “normal”. However, for many individuals, symptoms of stress, depression, and anxiety are high. With this shift comes managing the losses each of us has experienced over the last year and a half, some COVID-related, others not.
Losses of loved ones, losses of jobs, relationships ending, lack of being able to see our loved ones, and more, all have a significant impact on us. When experiencing a loss of any kind it’s normal to experience a variety of emotions including guilt, anger, fear, and shock. There are coping strategies to care for yourself as you process loss and feelings of grief, in addition to seeking support from friends, family, and maybe even a therapist.
Seeking some strategies to assist in coping with the process of grief as we transition to a new period, here are a few:
Find a creative outlet
Externalizing our emotions is healthy! Whether painting, drawing, playing music, dancing, or journaling, find a way to externalize your experience of grief and loss. Sometimes engaging in the process of creativity is enough to process these feelings, allowing yourself to reflect both during and after the experience.
Check-in with your physical health
Physical and emotional well-being are interconnected. Thus, ensuring you are getting enough sleep, eating healthy, and exercising to support your grief and loss process.
Allow yourself to sit with your feelings
As mentioned before, the feelings associated with grief can be painful and upsetting, while at the same time normal. It is natural to feel negative emotions as you process loss. Allow yourself to experience these emotions as avoiding them may cause ongoing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, or other concerns.
Look out for triggers to grief
As we begin participating in more activities, seeing others in person, attending events, we may find certain situations bring up memories and feelings related to the loss we are processing. Consider these as you prepare for situations where this might happen. Engage in coping strategies before and after; let others know you might need some support.
Validate yourself and your feelings
Every individual has their own way of coping with loss. There is no specific amount of time or way to manage your feelings. Do what feels right to you and don’t judge what you need to heal. Others may have suggestions however recognize that your feelings and how you process these are your own and that this may look different from how others go through the grieving process.
There is no “right” way to process loss and feelings of grief. However, allowing yourself space and grace to process these feelings is crucial to the healing process. Trust yourself and what you need on this journey, validating yourself along the way.
If you are struggling with loss and seeking additional strategies and support, click here.