For most of us, the death of a loved one is a devastating experience that can be hard to handle. Everyone will face some form of loss at some point in life, and that’s why it is important to understand grief as an emotion. Grief is a complex and deeply personal emotional response to loss. It involves a wide array of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours. Though it’s a universal experience, every person expresses and experiences grief differently.
It can result not only from the death of a loved one but also from other things like loss of a job, divorce, health issues, etc. Unresolved grief can have long-term emotional, cognitive, physical, and social/behavioural consequences. In such cases, it is recommended that you consult our psychiatrist in Kalyan.
We must understand that grief does not follow a timeline; it is a unique journey that needs to be handled and dealt with carefully. At our psychiatry clinic in Navi Mumbai, we provide counseling and support to individuals experiencing grief, helping them navigate this challenging time with compassion and understanding.
Here are some important points you must remember when helping a loved one deal with loss:
- Acknowledge the loss and LISTEN: Let the grieving person know that you acknowledge their loss and that it is okay for them to grieve. This can be done by simply saying, “I’m so sorry for your loss,” or “I can’t imagine what you’re going through.” Grieving individuals need to know their feelings are being understood.
- Listen without judgment: When someone is grieving, they need someone to listen to them without judgment. This means not offering unsolicited advice or trying to fix their problems. Simply be there for them and listen to what they have to say.
- Empathy and Validation: Empathy means showing understanding and compassion for the person’s feelings. Validation involves acknowledging their emotions as valid and normal. For example, you might say, “It’s completely normal to feel that way.”
- Open-Ended Questions: These questions encourage the grieving person to share their thoughts and feelings more deeply. For instance, you could ask, “Can you tell me more about your relationship with the person you’ve lost?” Be patient. Grief is a process, and it takes time to heal. Be patient with the grieving person and don’t expect them to “get over it” quickly. Give them space to share their thoughts and feelings.
- Offer practical help: Grief can be overwhelming, and sometimes the simplest things can be the most helpful. Offer to help with errands, childcare, or housework.
- Offering Comfort: It is important to offer physical and emotional comfort. Examples of comforting gestures can be offering a hug, holding their hand, or simply sitting quietly with them if they prefer silence. Sometimes silence can be more healing than words.
- Respect for Grieving Style: Everyone grieves differently. Some people may want to talk and share their feelings, while others may need solitude. Respecting their grieving style is crucial; let them take the lead in how they want to express their grief.
- Encouraging Professional Help: If the grieving person is experiencing intense or prolonged grief, consider discussing the benefits of seeking professional help. You can consult us at Nami Neuropsychiatry Clinic for expert guidance and support or simply get in touch with our psychiatrist in Kalyan.
With the right support and care, it is possible to deal with grief and find a path to healing. Keep in mind that grieving is a process, and it takes time to come out of it. At our psychiatry clinic in Navi Mumbai, we offer several treatments to restore mental well-being. For more information, get in touch with us at drparthnagda@gmail.com.