Coping with the loss of loved one

Mohamoud Merali

Coping with the death and loss of a loved one can be extremely hard.

The physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual implications can be overwhelming.

While grief is an expected response to a significant loss, the unfamiliar emotions that arise can lead to feelings of helplessness, fear and isolation.

Following a death, everyone works through these stresses differently as it is an individual experience. Some are instantly devastated while others feel numb and disconnected. Some withdraw socially while others reach out for support. There is a disruption in ‘normal’ routine and one can feel over tired, lack sleep, feel lonely, withdrawn and tearful.

The grieving process can be long and isolating, yet it’s crucial to accept support rather than grieve alone. Talking about grief is an essential part of healing. Receiving reassurance and feeling understood will help make the recovery process more complete during one of life’s most challenging times.

Acceptance

It is wise to seek professional help. A trained counsellor can help you release the emotions you may have stored up inside, make sense of what has happened and eventually help you to move-on with life.

The five stages of grief are: Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression and Acceptance.

Although these are common responses to loss, each individual processes their experience of loss in their own unique manner.

As difficult as the loss may be, it is possible to move forward with hope for the future.

— The writer is a Consultant Counselling Psychologist Aga Khan University Hospital