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6 Signs You Need a Grief Counsellor
Grief is a difficult and often intense emotion to process. You may feel like you’re on an emotional roller coaster, going from one extreme to the other. You might feel numb one minute, and the next minute you’re engulfed in sadness or anger. These are all normal reactions to grief. But sometimes, it can be hard to cope with these emotions on your own. If you’re finding it hard to function normally or manage your grief, it might be time to seek out professional help from a grief counsellor. Here are 6 signs that you might benefit from talking to a grief counsellor:
You can’t stop thinking about the person who died
Losing someone you care about can be hard to cope with, especially if that person’s death was unexpected. You may find yourself thinking about them a lot, which can be difficult because it brings up all sorts of emotions. It’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently and there is no “right” or “wrong” way to go through the grieving process. Keeping close any special memories you have of them and speaking their name out loud can help you feel closer to them and offer some peace amidst the grief. Surrounding yourself with loved ones who understand your grief can also be invaluable during this time.
You’re having trouble sleeping or eating
Not sleeping or eating well can be very tough, and makes it difficult to focus on what needs getting done. I know it can be difficult to find ways to manage this in your normal schedule, but there are certain things you can do that may help. For example, having an establish bedtime routine and avoiding screens before you turn in can help improve sleep. If hunger is keeping you from sleeping, try a light snack like toast or yogurt before going to sleep. You might also consider taking time during the day for self-care activities, such as Meditation, journaling or reading a book which may reduce stress and help your body relax. Finally, speaking with your grief counselling toronto provider or mental health care provider about any issues you’re experiencing could lead to helpful strategies for managing these symptoms.
You’re feeling numb or disconnected from the world
Lately, it feels like nothing matters. Everything just seems so mundane and joy feels so distant. With each day, the world feels a little more removed and everything within it becomes greyer and bluer. So much of the life we build for ourselves can wither away with no warning, letting us feel hollowed inside. It’s almost like the feeling of drowning in quicksand: struggling does no good and continuing on without help is impossible. That’s when recognizing that our thoughts, feelings, and emotions are completely valid comes in handy, as simply acknowledging them can be a first step towards redemption. If we’re feeling numb or disconnected from the world, finding a way to reach out to someone or something—even if it feels insignificant—may be enough to make that vast void slowly disappear.
You’re feeling angry, guilty, or ashamed
It’s normal to have these negative emotions from time to time, but it’s important that you don’t let them drag you down. Try your best to acknowledge and accept what you’re feeling without judgment or self-criticism. Find creative ways to express and release emotions like taking a brisk walk outside or drawing/painting out what you feel inside. Let yourself cry and talk things out with friends if it helps. Physically engage in a hobby that brings joy – even something simple like coloring can help keep your mind occupied. Remember that regardless of how bad the situation feels, this too shall pass and it won’t last forever.
You’re avoiding people and places that remind you of the person who died
It’s been tough to cope with the death of someone close to you. Every time you walk by the park where you used to go together or drive past their favorite restaurant it hits you all over again. Rather than going through that anguish, it can be advisable to avoid those places and people connected with them. It’s a sign of respect and gives us time to focus on ourselves; taking proper care of our mental and emotional wellbeing is an important part of the grieving process. No one should feel ashamed for protecting themselves like this if it’s necessary – the person who has passed away would only want you to be happy again in due time.
You’re struggling to cope with everyday tasks
It’s totally understandable to feel overwhelmed when everyday tasks seem daunting and unmanageable. If you feel like you’re reaching your wits’ end, it may be time to take a step back and reorganize. Taking some time for yourself can give you the energy and motivation needed to make it through the challenging times. It could be as simple as scheduling a chill day or treating yourself to a massage. Or if that’s not your thing, engaging in hobbies or activities that relax you can be just the ticket. Identifying what works best for you is key because at the end of the day everyone copes differently.
Conclusion
Grief is a normal and natural response to loss. It’s important to give yourself time and space to grieve in whatever way feels right for you. If your grief is severe or persists for more than a few months, it may be helpful to seek professional help with grief counsellors such as A Kind Place to get you through this tough period.
