What's Normal in Grieving?

You all know about loss whether it's losing a job, ending a marriage, or experiencing the death of a loved one.

Are you also aware of how important grieving that loss is?

Many people report that initially they feel "numb," which is very normal, because the loss is too overwhelming. It’s our brain’s way of protecting until it is possible to take in the reality.

"It's like I'm just going through the motions," reports a recent widow.
"I think it suddenly hit me that I won't have so much time with my children,"
a divorced father commented, "and I'm sad."

Taking care of yourself by allowing the feelings, letting go of all the "shoulds," and postponing major decisions early in the grieving process can help in moving through this part of life's journey.

Remember, there is no one right way to grieve.

Getting Through Tough Economic Times

Many people are feeling the stress of uncertainty and change. Helpful coping tips are available at the federal government's Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website: http://www.samhsa.gov/economy/#managingStress

Gaining information about managing the impact of job loss, financial problems, marital conflict, home foreclosures and other stressors can give help you transition from feeling victimized to taking effective action.