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When a spouse passes away, the loss can be difficult to deal with, even long after funeral arrangements have been made. Grief is natural, but there are many ways steps that one can take to process the emotions that follow the loss of a partner. If you’re mourning the loss of a husband or wife, consider these five suggestions for personal healing.

Coping With the Loss of a Spouse

1. Expect and Embrace Complex Emotions

Denial, anger, depression, and acceptance are common emotions of the grieving process. But while these emotions may be common, there are no set rules stating when you might experience them or how intense they may feel. While these feelings may be unpleasant, you must let yourself process them without shame or guilt.

2. Lean on Loved Ones

funeral arrangementsTurn to those you love most—including those who were close to deceased—and share how you’re feeling. These individuals are likely to have many of the same feelings and can provide support to help you work through them.

3. Practice Self-Care

Between planning funeral arrangements and experiencing the weight of grief, it can be difficult to put yourself first. However, failing to care for your own needs can only lead to negative emotions. Make it a priority to eat healthily, get outdoors, socialize, and sleep. For many, this may mean taking time off work or asking family and friends to help with household responsibilities.

4. Appreciate the Good Memories

When a loved one has passed, it’s easy to dwell on the circumstances of their death and how things could have been different. However, focusing on these factors may only intensify the negative aspects of bereavement, and it isn’t conductive to achieving positive change. When your mind drifts to these types of thoughts, look for ways to reflect on the happy times you had with the deceased. Over time, these memories can help you become more grateful for having the person in your life, rather than making you mourn their loss.

5. Consider Counseling

With an in-depth understanding of the bereavement process, grief counselors can help guide you through challenging thoughts and perspectives. If you’re not sure whom to consult, the funeral director who handled the funeral arrangements is likely to have recommendations.

 

 

Understanding that the loss of a loved one is a unique and personal experience, Jacqueline M. Ryan Home for Funerals in Keansburg, NJ, offers compassionate care to the families and friends of departed loved ones. Over the past 70 years, this establishment has built a history of providing one-on-one support, personalized funeral arrangements, and dignified memorial services. As a staple of the community, these funeral directors are also able to introduce you to exceptional grief counseling resources. To learn more about these services, visit this provider online or call (732) 787-1177.

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