Finding Some Comfort While Grieving

We’re told that grief has stages that we move through, that there is an end to the process. But the truth is much more complex than that. While its intensity can lessen over time, there are often triggers, sometimes unexpected ones, that bring up feelings in new and painful ways.

And while grief is a common experience, it is still a topic many feel uncomfortable talking about. For example, if you’ve lost someone you love, others in your community might not know how to talk to you about it even if you want to keep the conversation—and memory—of your person present. Others often worry they are making you feel worse you by asking how you’re coping.

If you are struggling with grief right now, we want you to know there is no right or wrong way to move through it. To start, reach out to someone you trust or get support from a therapist to help guide you. You might be surprised how freeing it feels to have a safe space to cry or rage. This can create a release of emotions that you don’t have to mask or numb with food. 

You can also look into grief support groups in your area. It can be very helpful to be with others going through the same thing because it makes your pain feel much less isolating. These groups also create a specific place for conversations about grief. You might also find comfort in hearing how others have moved through or are managing where they are at on their grief journey.

Grief can be all consuming and change how you feel, act, and think in your daily life. For example, you might notice that your emotional eating has increased. This is completely expected! Food is comfort, memory, and always there for you. Know that your relationship with food can change over time. 

If you find yourself in a thought-loop where your mood is low with recurring thoughts, try asking yourself: what has grief taught you? For example, maybe after losing a parent, you take all the photos of your kids as reminders of your time together. Or maybe you found an annual ceremony helps you concentrate on your grief for that day and then it lessens the rest of the year.

It is possible to find some glimmer in the grief process, allowing you to find your way through the feelings of darkness.

💛 Your peace awaits.