When Facing the Trauma of Loss
Having to face the loss of a loved one alone is nothing anyone should endure. The process of grief and period of bereavement is a complex and life-changing experience. The following is a resource to get you the help you need.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Begin by admitting that you may need help. Any prevailing idea that you must get over it and that it is just part of life is a myth. Do not feel embarrassed that you are struggling with your loss. There is no shame in asking for help. The idea that people can get on without support is wrong and harmful to the survivor.
The Cost of Not Addressing Your Grief
What happens if you don’t address your grief? Unaddressed grief can, over time, lead to seemingly unrelated problems. These may include depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, and other coping mechanisms to compensate for repressed grief. Over time these can lead to other health problems.
Bereavement Is a Healthy Part of Coping with Loss
It is essential to understand that grief is the understandable response to the death of a loved one. Bereavement is the period of time in which a person suffering grief goes through a process of change and addresses their grief. Address your pain. Ask for help. While it is a difficult thing to do, it is the right thing to do. Do not rush yourself. This will take time.
Where to Begin
Begin by asking someone close to you to help you to review and assess your resources. Then, check if your health insurance covers counseling and bereavement leave. If you have life insurance, see if you are covered for any bills that will occur during your bereavement. Be sure to check for co-pay and any out-of-pocket costs. In addition, make sure you will be covered for prescription costs and child-care costs that may occur.
If You Don’t Have Insurance
There is hope even if you don’t have insurance to cover the expenses of coping with grief. Begin by contacting your local city or county health department for a list of free resources. Many of these will be available at little or no cost or will offer services on a sliding scale. In addition, you may need to look for grief support for people in your family with different needs.
You may also wish to consider contacting your local church. Your spiritual needs are a part of bereavement counseling. Most churches and local parishes offer support for those who are currently grieving.
Also, ask a friend. They may know about support groups or other free services. Always remember that you are not alone. Ask for help.
There Is Always Hope
You are not alone. Grief is normal and is a healthy response to the death of a loved one. You do not have to face your loss alone, either. Start today. Ask for the help you need to cope with your loss. By doing so, you can begin to rebuild your life.