Grief is a powerful, overwhelming state of mind. Losing someone who has been a vital part of your life can impact you in many ways, and sometimes your reaction can be unexpected. That’s why it is critical to seek out support after losing someone you love. Everyone has a different way of coping with grief, and there’s no right or wrong method.

But it is essential to ensure your way of coping isn’t destructive. People can become lost in grief, which can have a significant impact on their personal and professional life. Fortunately, there are many support options available today:

1. Connect with Friends and Family

A burden shared is a burden halved. Sometimes grieving is easier if you are in the company of people who are also experiencing it. Speak with your friends and family, share good memories of the lost loved one, and share your pain. This can help you accept the loss and realize you’re not alone.

2. Seek out Bereavement Counseling

Being with friends and family offers comfort to some but, can it be a burden to others. It is easy to ignore your pain or convince yourself to be strong for someone else’s sake. Bereavement counseling can be beneficial in these circumstances. It allows people to focus on themselves instead of trying to support other members of their family. Counselors aren’t connected to your family and aren’t experiencing grief. There’s no need to stay strong or control your emotions in their company.

3. Join Support Groups

Counselors offer practical support, but they can appear distant. Support groups provide a good compromise between family members who are experiencing the same loss and professional counselors. You are with people who have gone through or are going through the same pain, but there’s no personal connection. Grieving individuals can share the full extent of their experiences with the support group. For example, long-term caregivers often feel relief after their loved one has passed away. A support group can show them this feeling isn’t all that uncommon.

4. Get Away from the Familiar Environment

If you were living with the person you lost, the familiar home environment might become stifling. Get away from your home or town for a few days to get some distance. Many people feel less overwhelmed and stressed out when they’re away from the familiar environment. Go to comfortable and peaceful places to collect your thoughts. For example, a visit to a nearby beach and spend a day there. The sound of waves and the vastness of the sea might help you feel calmer.

5. Draw Comfort from Spirituality and Faith

Many grieving individuals find comfort in their faith and spirituality. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, you can visit a nearby Church, Mosque, or Temple to find some comfort. You can also speak with a priest, read scriptures, and find solace in God. Faith doesn’t work for everyone, but it can support people who believe in religion or spirituality. Don’t hesitate to seek help from a local religious establishment during your time of grief.

6. Find Support on Social Media

Social media is a blessing for people in pain because it offers some level of anonymity. Many individuals find it easier to share their true feelings with their online friends. There’s no pressure to be restrained or to mince your words. You can find support groups on websites like Twitter, Facebook, or Tumblr with a simple search. If it isn’t possible to get support in real life, reach out online for some help. 

There are no rules when it comes to grieving. Everyone finds their way to deal with the pain. Getting support ensures you stay on the safest path and don’t lose control of your life.