Coping With Losses:

Coping with Losses is something most people experience at some time in their lives. The loss can occur with the death of a loved one, divorce or other lifestyle change. Death of a loved one is the highest stressor we can experience. Depending on our relationship with the deceased, our lives are usually forever changed. How we deal with grief can either help or hinder how we begin to carry on in our new lives. Grieving is different for everyone and there is no “normal” way in which to grieve. Based on what or who we are grieving and what the state of our mind and body are in at that time can determine the degree of sadness and the accompanying behaviors we may experience. Children grieve differently than adults do and people from different cultures, backgrounds and religions have varying expectations of grief. I believe that one thing is universal for all of us: grief is a normal part of the human experience and we should allow ourselves and others to grieve as long as it takes to complete the process. Divorce is the second most difficult stressor people can experience. Job Loss brings with it not only a loss of income but all of the uncertainties about our ability to provide for ourselves and family members. The financial worries can cause physical and emotional pressures leading to illness and further distress in the form of depression, sleep difficulties and anxiety disorders. The frequent accompanying feelings of anxiety and depression can be exacerbated by unhealthy habits like increases in alcohol and food intake, sleep difficulties, and prescription medications. This is a time to take an inventory of who we are and apply what we learn to create an emotionally healthier lifestyle for ourselves.