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The East Central Florida Memory Clinic Newsletter Living Life After Loss "When written in Chinese the word crisis is composed of two characters. One represents danger and the other represents opportunity" John F. Kennedy (speech, 1959). Loss, like many human experiences, can take numerous forms. Since everyone experiences loss differently, we cannot understand the grief that a person feels after divorce or the death of a loved one. There is no prescribed time for the grieving process which can vary from months to years depending on the individuals involved. Even though people grieve differently, there are some commonalties to the way that people grieve. After loss, people may experience a wide variety of emotions such as depression, anger and indifference. Physical symptoms are not uncommon and can include weight loss, sleeping difficulties, headaches and feelings of emptiness amongst others. These feelings, both emotional and physical, should been seen as signs of healing, not weakness. Many people find that it isn't until after the initial "wave" of loss, (the funeral, divorce, settling of affairs, etc.), that they can really begin to process what has happened. This, for many, can be a very difficult time, as the realities of daily living and responsibility come back into play. A person who has experienced the loss of a significant other may find themselves with new responsibilities that they have never taken on before. This can add an additional burden to the grieving person who is already having difficulty maintaining the status quo. It is during this time that it may be helpful for the grieving person to reach out. Frequently, people who have experienced personal losses find volunteering, employment and religious activities to be helpful. The most difficult step in doing this is starting. Many communities offer support groups which focus on different types of loss. It's often helpful to talk to someone who has experienced a similar loss. This may be done more informally by speaking to friends, neighbors and family members about the loss and different ways of getting involved in various activities. Many local organizations such as Community Psychological Services, the United Way, and religious groups offer support and referral services to help people find activities that are rewarding and fulfilling. The best thing you can do for someone
who has experienced a recent loss is to be patient and available. Remember
that the most difficult time in the healing process can occur months
after the loss. Sometimes a simple phone call can lift a person's spirits.
Although it never hurts to offer activities, it should be noted that
different people will become more involved at different times. Continual
and consistent support is the best way of showing someone that they're
in you're thoughts and that you care. By: Stacey Baron, M.A. and Katherine Billiot, M.A. East Central Florida Memory Clinic |
