Tips for navigating grief

• Family and caregivers
• Grief and loss

Grief is a natural response to losing someone or something we love, including the death of a loved one. It is often a complex and deeply personal experience and usually includes secondary losses such as the loss of identity, loss of routine and sometimes loss of financial security.

Grief can affect us emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually, and it is important to recognize that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Grief can also be affected by our cultural values. Some people may experience intense emotions like sadness, anger, or guilt, while others may feel numb or disconnected. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite, or trouble sleeping are also common experiences.

Suggestions to help you cope with grief

Navigating grief can be overwhelming, but there are things you can do to help you cope with your feelings.

Acknowledge your feelings

Allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up, whether it’s sadness, anger, or confusion. Avoiding or suppressing your feelings can prolong the grieving process.

Give yourself permission to grieve

We all grieve in our own way. Some people need to keep busy, while others feel paralyzed – and some have a combination of both. Allow yourself to grieve the way that feels right for you.

Seek support

Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a place like Dorothy Ley Hospice. Talking about your feelings with others who understand can provide comfort and validation.

Try to take care of yourself

It’s hard to do when we are grieving. A little effort may be all the energy you have. So focus on small things like a walk, eating well, gentle exercise, and getting plenty of rest. Drink water to stay hydrated.

Create rituals

Establishing rituals or traditions to honour your loved one’s memory can be a meaningful way to cope with grief. This could include lighting a candle, writing in a journal, or visiting a special place.

Be patient with yourself

Healing from grief takes time, and it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Allow yourself to grieve at your own pace and be patient with yourself as you navigate this new way of being in the world.

Our dedicated grief support team is here to provide compassionate care and guidance to individuals and families coping with loss who reside in the communities of Etobicoke and West Toronto at no charge. Learn more about our services and register to attend our next Understanding Grief for the Newly Bereaved webinar.