National Grief Awareness Day
August 2024
Loss can be among the most challenging human experiences an individual can face. August 30th is National Grief Awareness Day, which is designed to raise awareness for the experiences of grief. Grief can encompass a complex range of emotions and can be manifested differently for everyone.
What is Grief?
Grief is a complex human emotion that almost everyone experiences differently. It’s usually caused by some form of loss, which may include loss of a loved one, pet, career, future plans, or a cherished object.
It is commonly believed that there are several stages to the grieving process, which everyone moves through uniquely. Some people may experience all stages, while others may only experience a few.
The Stages of Grief include:
Denial
Anger
Bargaining
Depression
Acceptance
Grief may feel all-consuming and make it hard to carry out daily activities. Allowing yourself to feel your emotions can help you heal and move forward with time.
Effects of Grief
Physical Effects
Weight change
Tension throughout the body
Sleep issues
Emotional Effects
Depression
Guilt
Anger
Anxiety
Loneliness
Behavioral Effects
Forgetfulness
Talking a lot about who or what you lost
Withdrawing from previously enjoyed activities
Worrying more about other people
Grief is a process you don’t have to go through alone. Reach out to a medical or mental health professional to help with your grief.
How Long Does Grief Last?
People heal from grief at their own pace; there is no timeline for how long the grieving process should last or how much time is too much. Grief may come and go in waves over years, or you may experience it all at once. When waves of grief hit, don’t worry: you aren’t moving backwards, this is a normal part of grieving.
Tips for Coping with Loss
Lean on people who care
Comfort yourself at home, practice self-care
Take care of your physical health
Try therapy
Recognizing National Grief Awareness
Practice self-care
Join a support group
Remember a loved one you lost
Help a loved one who is grieving/offer support
Listen more than you speak
Give it time
