What to Expect In Healing Grief, Victor M. Parachin offers his insights into what the bereaved can expect. He says that the following are some of the most common symptoms that people can expect[1]: Shock and denial-“this can’t be happening to me!” This natural numbing process offers the space and time needed to gradually absorb the magnitude of the loss. Loneliness and vulnerability-“I didn’t know loneliness could hurt so much.” The void left by the loss creates a loneliness that leaves one feeling alone, even in a room full of people. The shattered ideals that the loss causes, leaves the bereaved feeling vulnerable to other tragedies and losses. Tears and weeping-“I just can’t stop crying.” Tears are nature’s “safety valves.” They cleanse the body of toxins that build up from stress, and provide an important release of tension. Pain and hurt-“I don’t think I can take any more!” The loss of a loved one conspires with other emotions to create deep psychological pain. Panic and anxiety-“What am I going to do?” A death brings with it a great many changes. All of the changes create feelings of anxiety and even panic at times. Guilt and regret-“I should have done more.” Many grievers may find themselves second-guessing their words and actions: If only I had been there. If only I hadn’t said that. If only I had called. Anger and frustration-“How could she do this to me?” The bereaved may find themselves angry and frustrated at times-at the person who died, at a member of the medical staff, or at some insensitive family member or friend. Depression and sadness-“Will life ever be worth living again?” In his book Death and Grief: A Guide for Clergy, Alan D. Wolfelt notes: “Depression is nature’s way of allowing for a time-out while one works to heal the wounds of grief. Depression shuts down the physiological system and prevents major organ systems from being damaged.” Recovery and readjustment-“Knowing I am adjusting to life again would please my loved one.” In time, memories of a loved one will bring a smile instead of tears.
Posted on: Sat, 26 Apr 2014 13:43:27 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015