Dealing with Loss by Chioma Momah

 

The truth is that the pain of losing a loved one cannot really be explained. It’s like a void that never gets filled and a pain that never quite goes away. Losing a loved one is something everyone is sure to experience because as Americans say there are two things that are sure in life “death and taxes”.

After you have processed the nerve racking pain (it’s akin to someone battering your soul with a sledgehammer) you must come to terms with the tragedy and move on. Staying angry, in pain or blaming yourself can make you spiral into the depths of depression. Here are some things you can do to help you deal with this dark period in your life.

• A time to heal:– this is like taking your prescribed medications in order to get well. Talking to a grief counselor or someone who has gone through a similar experience may help you get through this process faster. Don’t rush this period but don’t wallow in self pity either.

• The Memory – the good memories are what you have left to hold on to – they will see you through the years to come. Try not to focus on the regrets or the bad times but instead the laughter shared and the fun times spent together. It’s these moments that will bring a smile to your face. Looking through old pictures of your loved one is particularly soothing.

• The Lessons – what are the lessons to be learnt from this grief? One major one is never taking your loved ones for granted as you never know when they will be gone. Another is living a purposeful life. Make up your mind to spend quality time with your other loved ones and be prayerful at all times.

Going through the pain of a loved one is hard, and nothing truly prepares you for it. However others will hurt after you and you will be there to guide them through if you must make a decision to move forward and not allow yourself sink into the depths of despair.