How long should one grieve and can it be easier ?

At some point in our lives, we all experience grief and according to science, it happens in stages. Grief is a hard time and may be difficult to overcome but it is a natural response to loss or change. So once there’s a trigger for it, it happens. Often, it is associated with feelings of sadness, longing, and confusion. It can be experienced in response to various types of losses, such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, a major life transition,or the loss of a job.Hence, the aim is to be able to come to acceptance quickly and for this phase to be easier. Because it cannot be removed or overlooked .

How long is long enough to grieve?

There really is no defined period for grieving hence, the duration of grief varies from person to person.Also, several factors such as the nature of the loss, the individual’s coping mechanisms, and their support system can influence this .So, it may take days, months, or even years to process and heal from a loss. Hence, you should give yourself permission to grieve in your own way and at your own pace. Seeking support from a therapist or grief counselor may help. Especially if you feel stuck in your grief.

There are five stages of grief

There are five proven stages of grief, according to the Kubler-Ross model. They are denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. There is a rumor that there are seven stages of grief. But, this is not based on scientific evidence and is a misconception.
The five stages of grief, are as follows :

• Denial: refusing to believe the reality of the loss or its impact.

• Anger: feeling frustration or irritation at the situation.

• Bargaining: attempting to make deals or negotiate in hopes of changing the outcome.

• Depression: feeling overwhelmed, sad, and hopeless.

• Acceptance: coming to terms with the reality of the loss and beginning to move forward.

However ‘s important to note that these stages are not linear and people may experience them in a different order, or not experience all of them. The grief process is unique to each individual.

How long does each stage of grief last?

As highlighted above, the duration of each stage of grief can vary greatly from person to person and there is no set timeline for how long each stage may last. The stages of grief, may not occur in a linear fashion and can be experienced in different orders or even simultaneously. It’s important to remember that everyone grieves differently and that there is no “right” way to grieve. However, grieving can be made easier.

What makes grieving easier?

Grieving can be a difficult, albeit individualized process. So,what may make it easier for one person may not necessarily work for another. However, some things that can potentially make grieving easier include :

• Seeking support from family and friends,
• Participating in a support group or therapy,
• Taking care of oneself through exercise and self-care. Exercise releases endorphins and make you feel good.
• Allowing oneself to feel and express emotions,
• Finding ways to honor the person who has passed, and giving oneself time to heal.

• Also ,a belief in God or the existence of a giver of life, the time of grief is the time to hold fast to your belief that he gives life and does not kill. And that he comforts greatly. Only the devil has come to kill and to destroy.
• Having a belief is a strong thing, one that will help you garner strength and come out fresh and new. I am a firm believer in this and it helped me deal with the loss of a loved one.

What are the common reactions to grief?

Common reactions to grief may include sadness, crying, shock, disbelief, anger, guilt, loneliness, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, and a sense of numbness or detachment. Some people may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or aches and pains. These reactions as well often vary from person to person, so not everyone will experience the same reactions or in the same way.

What to eat while grieving

While grieving, it’s important to focus on nourishing your body with healthy foods. Some options to consider include:

1. Lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, or tofu
2. Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat bread
3. Fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins and antioxidants
4. Healthy fats, such as nuts, seeds, and avocado
5. Herbal teas or warm broth, which can be soothing and comforting.

It’s also important to drink plenty of water and try to avoid excessive amounts of caffeine, sugar, or alcohol, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety or sadness. Finally, be sure to give yourself permission to eat what you enjoy, even if it’s not always the most nutritious option. Grief can be a difficult and emotional time, and it’s okay to indulge in your favorite comfort foods occasionally.

Till next time!

Please be happy!