To
Grieve or Not to Grieve?
Leticia M. Hill
Mention the word “grief and most people instantly think
of loss, particularly the death of a loved one or beloved pet. However, as
language continues to evolve and more literature is published on the topic of
grief, the meaning will continuously shift. Therefore, grief can no longer be
limited to human loss nor anguish over the death of an animal.
The definition of grief is
culturally distinctive. Thus, it must be explored from the context of the
grieving individual’s cultural norms, values and assumptions about loss and
death. Below are four universal tips for individuals that have recently
experienced loss or death and are unsure as how to cope with grief.
Four Tips for Exploring Grief
ü Be introspective: Become comfortable with examining
your thoughts and feelings around the loss or death
ü Be intentional: Notice your thoughts and feelings over
the loss or death and decide how you desire to navigate other relationships and
situations
ü Be patient: Allow yourself time and plenty of space to
process your emotions and thoughts
ü Be accessible: Allow friends, family, clergy,
colleagues and/or clinicians to provide both verbal and non-verbal or “silent”
support
Regardless of your cultural
background or experiences, grief is a fairly common response to loss or death.
It is important to recognize and address grief. How do you grieve over a loss
or death?
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