There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Grieving is an individual process with no specific timetable. It takes as long as it takes to adjust to the changes in your life. Grief is a natural and normal response to change and loss. It ebbs and flows, triggered by reminders, dates, & anniversaries.
Changes that May Occur
- Emotional
- Shock and Denial
- Anger and Blame
- Guilt and Shame
- Sadness and Depression
- Withdrawal & Loneliness
- Hopelessness and Helplessness
- Physical
- Nausea
- Lack of Energy
- Changes in Sleeping & Eating Patterns
- Cognitive
- Difficulty Focusing, Working, Making Decisions
- Spiritual Challenges:
- Questioning of Ones’ Value, Meaning, Purpose in Life.
Coping With Loss
- Embracing and honoring your thoughts and emotions provides a pathway through the grief.
- Be gentle, kind and forgiving of yourself.
- Allow yourself the gift of time.
- Nurture and “Refill the Well” with reading, movies, travel…
- Eat well, exercise/move, and get adequate rest.
- The only way out is through the grief. Avoid alcohol/drugs to mask grief.
- Reach out for help. Seek out friends. Attend a support group.
- Talk about your loss. Honor the memories.
- Use creativity, art, music, writing to help express your feelings.
- One Step at a Time. Set attainable goals. Reclaim a routine in life.
- Make meaning of the loss.
- Find Hope in New Direction
Bereavement Resources
- Maine Grief Support Centers (listed by County) download PDF
- Psychology Today: Search for a Grief Therapist in Maine by city or county
- Androscoggin Home Care and Hospice Bereavement Group and Support
- When Grief is New: a Guide for family and friends Through Dana Farber
- Advanced Care Planning
- Spiritual Support
- Palliative Care Resources: Getpattiliativecare.org
