Coping with loss takes time, and it impacts each person differently, both emotionally and physically. There is no single “right way” to grieve. The experience is deeply personal, and healing happens at its own pace.
Below, we explore different approaches to managing grief — from practical coping strategies to emotional support options — to help you navigate this difficult journey.
Understanding Grief
Grief affects people in many ways. Some people show emotions outwardly, while others process them more privately. No matter how you experience grief, remember: you are on your own timeline. There is no set schedule for “getting over” loss.
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Allow yourself to feel — Painful feelings are natural and part of the healing process.
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Avoid rushing yourself or others — Everyone processes loss differently.
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Expect changes in routines and priorities — It’s normal for life to feel different after loss.
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Release unnecessary guilt — Most feelings of guilt involve things beyond your control.
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Acceptance doesn’t mean approval — Accepting a situation simply means acknowledging its reality and finding ways to move forward.
Coping Strategies for Grief
There are many healthy ways to cope with loss. Experiment with different strategies to find what works best for you:
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Talk with others
Share your feelings with trusted friends, family, or a professional listener. Simply being heard can ease the burden. -
Find creative outlets
Expressing your emotions through writing, art, music, or other forms of creativity can help process grief. -
Engage in physical activity
Exercise can relieve stress and provide a positive outlet for emotional energy. -
Give yourself permission to take breaks
Step away from your grief from time to time. Enjoying a moment of distraction or comfort is not forgetting — it’s part of healing. -
Maintain a routine
Keeping a familiar routine can provide structure and stability. -
Forgive yourself
Self-compassion is critical. Speak to yourself as you would to a friend in need. -
Find ways to connect
Participate in activities or groups that foster connection, whether through shared interests, support networks, or spiritual communities. -
Take care of yourself
Focus on your basic needs: eat well, get enough rest, and seek medical care when needed. -
Consider joining a support group
Hearing from others who understand your experience can be validating and helpful.
Special Circumstances in Grief
While grief is a shared human experience, certain types of loss can bring unique challenges:
Loss of a Co-Worker
The grief of losing a co-worker is often unspoken. Recognize that this loss can affect your daily routine and emotional well-being. Allow space to process this grief, just as you would for the loss of a friend.
Loss by Suicide
Grieving a loss by suicide can be complicated by shock, unanswered questions, and deep emotional pain. It is important to seek support, give yourself time, and approach healing gently. Open conversations with loved ones and children can help normalize difficult feelings.
Loss by Homicide
When loss is accompanied by traumatic circumstances such as homicide, there may be added stress from legal proceedings or media attention. Focus on what you can control, seek trauma-informed support, and prioritize your emotional well-being.
Coping with Change
Loss often brings significant life changes. It’s okay to accept help from friends and family. Leaning on your support system can lighten the emotional load during transitions.