The loss of a loved one cuts deeply, and the scars may never fade. However, every day that you wake up is a day that you must continue to live. Your loved one would insist on it, and those left behind along with you may need your strength during the most difficult moments. Although nothing can replace your loved one, there are things you can do to move forward in the life that you have left to live.
Here are a few tips on how to keep going in the face of grief.
Spend some time away
Sometimes, a change of scenery is one of the greatest ways to move forward. While it can be difficult to break away as a business owner, getting away from the home that you once shared with your loved one can help you reset and recharge. It might be helpful to plan a solo trip to a city that you’ve never been to. It’s important to create a break from your familiar circumstances to create new memories and alleviate your stress.
Update your healthy habits, including seeing an online therapist
In the days and weeks after the loss of your loved one, you likely turned away from taking care of yourself. But, you can’t forgo self-care, especially as it relates to healthy habits, such as eating and exercise. If you’ve not been an exercise advocate before, now might be a great time to try walking. Hartstein Psychological Services explains that this form of exercise gets you out into nature and allows you to seek social support from others.
Exercise alone might not be enough to stave off depression, so you should also pay close attention to your diet. Getting proper nourishment and enough water is critical to both your short- and long-term health. Although you can’t eat your way out of grief, chicken, oatmeal, eggs, nuts, and bananas are healthy options that can help you get ahead of depression while keeping your body strong and nourished.
Consulting with therapists online or in person is always a good idea, too. As you seek out mental health support if you're overwhelmed by grief, online therapy is convenient, secure, private, and less of a commitment than in-person therapy. When you choose to see an online therapist, you'll have a wider variety of licensed professionals to choose from, save time on travel, and pay less for mental health care. Many therapists also offer a complimentary consultation to ensure you find the right match.
Put your loved ones' belongings to good use.
It might take a year or more, but, at some point, you will go through your loved one’s personal belongings. And, although it may not feel that way now, purging these items can be very cathartic. If you’re not sure where to donate things like books, clothing, and electronics, start with your local Samaritan Center. Legacy.com also suggests various charities, including Fitness 4 Charity and ReStore. If your loved one left behind large items, such as a vehicle, that you can’t use, you may consider honoring their memory by donating this to a charity near and dear to their hearts. What’s important here is to start small and work your way up to large items when you are emotionally ready.
Other Tips
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing grief. Other ideas that might help include:
Starting a new hobby
Learning how to manage money
Writing or listening to music
Volunteering with children
Drawing
Dating (it’s best to wait until you’re past the point of “brain fog” before dating if you’re grieving the loss of a spouse)
Reconnect with your church if you’ve been away. Your church community can be a source of compassion and fellowship during your difficult time.
Grief is always present, but it does not have to control your life. There are many things you can do, from traveling to donating your loved one’s personal items, that can help you manage your grief and move on with your new life. The most important thing to remember here is to do it on your terms and don’t let anyone tell you that you have to move on when you’re not ready.