For many people, the grieving process is emotionally demanding and complex. Oftentimes, it fails to follow a linear fashion; while you may feel a sense of closure immediately after leaving the funeral home following your loved one’s service, you could experience new grief with milestone events, such as birthdays and holidays. While it’s important to be patient with yourself and grieve in whatever way feels right to you, here are a few general tips you may find helpful for healing.

A Guide to Healing While Grieving the Loss of a Loved One

1. Try a New Activity or Experience

While it’s important to confront your emotions after losing someone special, many people also find that distractions can be healing. Staying busy can be a powerful way to find simple joys, however small. Try out a new restaurant or activity, such as an exercise or crafting class. You might also consider seeing a movie or show with friends or even by yourself. If you had a favorite activity you enjoyed prior to your loved one’s passing, pick it back up when you feel ready.

2. Get Involved in Your Community

Oftentimes, grief can be isolating. After you’ve received condolences at the funeral home and you have some quiet time to yourself, you may feel as if others are picking up and resuming their lives while you feel stuck. Support groups are always useful for establishing connections with others, but if you’re seeking a different way to engage with people, you should look into volunteering opportunities at an animal or homeless shelter. Giving back to the community can be a rewarding way to turn the challenging feelings of grief into positivity.

3. Do Something for Yourself

Getting through each new day without your loved one is an accomplishment. From making funeral home arrangements to sorting out paperwork, there are many activities involved with handling a family member’s passing. Recognize each obstacle you overcome, and do something rewarding for yourself. Purchasing a new piece of furniture, practicing self-care by going for a massage, or even taking a mini trip can give you something small to look forward to. Even if you simply taking a mental health day to yourself without any obligations on the calendar, that in itself can promote healing when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Behind Monroe County, NY’s trusted funeral home, Arndt Funeral Home LLC, is a compassionate team who understands and respects the difficulties the grieving process can bring. Their caring directors work with local families to honor the respects of their loved ones, providing support through every step of the way. To learn about preplanned arrangements, visit their website. You can also contact a staff member by calling (585) 225-6350.