The pain of losing someone we love is profound and life-altering. In an instant, our world can feel unrecognizable—turned upside down and inside out. Grief brings with it a complex mix of emotions: sadness, disbelief, anger, guilt and loneliness. While no two journeys through grief are alike, support, time and self-compassion can help us begin to process and find peace.

Bereavement refers to the period of mourning following a loss. During this time, emotions often feel overwhelming and unpredictable. Grief, the internal emotional response to loss, is deeply personal and can affect one’s mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. Mourning, by contrast, is the outward expression of grief—often seen through rituals, memorials and shared remembrances. These customs serve to honor the departed and provide communal space for healing.

The renowned psychiatrist Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross identified five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. These stages are not linear, and individuals may move through them in different orders or revisit stages over time.

A key part of healing involves embracing the “3 C’s”: Communicate, Connect and Choose. Communicating with others about one’s grief—whether through conversation, journaling or therapy—helps release emotion and gain perspective. Connection, particularly with those that are supportive and compassionate, reminds us we are not alone. And choosing to stay engaged in life—even through small daily decisions—can restore a sense of control and purpose.

Isolation may seem like a natural instinct during grief, but extended withdrawal can intensify feelings of loss. Instead, engaging in intentional activities such as walking in nature, attending a support group or simply having coffee with a friend can be both comforting and grounding.

Practical Strategies for
Self-Care During Grief

Healing from grief requires tending to both body and spirit:

• Honor emotions: Whether crying, laughing or sitting in silence, allow oneself to feel.

• Support physical health: Stay hydrated, eat nourishing foods and maintain regular sleep.

• Express creatively: Writing, painting or playing music can be powerful outlets.

• Embrace nature: Time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress and support emotional resilience.

• Create structure: Maintaining a schedule—even loosely—can bring comfort and clarity.

• Seek professional support: A therapist, coach or grief counselor can offer valuable guidance.

Grief does not have a set timeline. Mourning may ebb and flow for months or years. We may never stop missing your loved one—but over time, the pain can soften and space opens for cherished memories to bring peace rather than sorrow.

Above all, be gentle with oneself. Healing is not about “getting over it”. It’s about learning how to carry the love forward and how to live with meaning in a world that has changed.

Santa Crisall, RN, MA, APN-c, QTTP, PsyD, is with Restorative Wellness, in Medford, NJ. Call 201-400-7292 or visit www.RestorativeWellness.net.