1. Listen to your body.
If you need to cry then cry, if you need
to sleep, then do so, if you need to talk
to someone, seek out someone who will listen;
if you need to reminisce, then take the
time. It is important for the grieving
process that you go with the flow.
2. Lower expectations for yourself.
You can't expect yourself to run at full
capacity for some time. Give yourself a
break and don't expect yourself to perform
as well as you did prior to your loss.
Educate others that it will take some time
before your performance is back to normal.
3. Let others know what you need from them.
Don't
expect
others
to
know
what
you
need.
Communicate
to
family
and friends how they can support you.
4. Take the time to do the things you need
to do for yourself.
When
you feel
up to it, engage
in activities you
feel the pull towards.
It could be visiting
a place you haven't
been to in awhile,
walks in nature,
reading, etc.
5. If you need counseling, get it.
Get all the support you need. There are
many bereavement support groups as well
as counselors who specialize in bereavement
counseling. Don't hesitate to contact a
medical and/or mental health specialist
if you have feelings of hopelessness or
suicidal thoughts.
6. Pamper yourself.
Treat yourself well. Without breaking your
budget, do things for yourself that are
helpful like taking walks, being with people
who are nurturing to you, and inexpensive
activities.
7. Keep a journal.
Writing down your thoughts and feelings
can help you to validate and work through
your grief.
8. Get physical exercise.
If you exercised prior to your loss,
try to maintain the same routine. If you
did not exercise prior to your loss and
are overweight or have health problems,
visit your doctor before embarking on a
physical exercise routine. Physical exercise
can improve the way you feel.
9. Get proper diet and sleep.
Maintaining a healthy diet and getting
proper sleep is essential for functioning
as well as you can. If you are having difficulty
with either, visit your doctor.
10. Be aware of others' reactions.
Many people do not know how to react appropriately
to your grief. Some are more comfortable
than others in responding to your situation.
Be aware that people have different ideas
not only about death, but about how bereaved
individuals should react. Be true to yourself,
and let others know if they say something
inappropriate.
