First and foremost, be patient with yourself in your time of grief. You will need time to heal. You may find that you deal with your sadness differently than others in your family and circle of friends. In fact, relatives and friends may be very uncomfortable around you initially. They may want to help but may not always know how. You may have to help them learn how to be supportive to you. If you can, it would be good to talk openly about your loved one so that others around you know this is appropriate. Don't be afraid to share your thoughts and tears with others.

Crying is an acceptable and healthy expression of grief. It serves to release built-up tension. Guilt, real or imagined, is a normal part of grieving. It surfaces in thoughts and feelings of "if only". Don't allow such imaginings however to take over your life. It will be helpful to you if you can share these uncomfortable feelings as well.

Be careful not to allow others to take over your life and decision making or to rush you into anything. Take small steps and do things when you feel ready. A sense of purpose and meaning will return to your life. The pain will lessen.

Don't be disturbed if you are questioning old beliefs. This also is a natural part of grieving. But be careful not to cut yourself off from your faith. For many people, faith and spirituality do offer strength to accept the unacceptable. Other sources of help can come from support groups and counseling services. You may want to look into these different avenues as time goes on. Overall, remember that you can find healing and hope for the future, and your life can move in a positive direction.

During your time of grief you should realize that it is natural to want to run away, to flee the pain and emptiness rather than deal with it. Most people move through grief in slow phases. It certainly is understandable that people would like to move along quicker and feel whole and happy again, but grieving and healing do happen "one day at a time". You have to be realistic about the different reactions and responses you may have in grief.

We have included several articles in this section of the website to touch upon different grief aspects.  By no means can they begin to cover everything, but are intended to serve as a starting point.  Also included are some suggested books that may be available at TraditionCare or your favorite bookstore.  Most importantly, never hesitate to call us with any questiions.  If we can't help you we will be glad to refer you to someone that can.