When you are grieving the loss of somebody important to you, it can be confusing to determine where to turn. You may have no idea what "normal" looks like in the wake of a serious loss, and that is something many other people experience.

The following tips will help you through the grieving process and help you understand the different grief support systems available to you.

Sharing Stories

Often, one of the best ways to work through grief is to share stories with others about the person that you lost. It can be healing to remember the positive moments you shared together. This helps you validate the fact that this person was important and that their legacy lives in on, even after they are gone.

Journaling

Even if you have a strong support network, it can be helpful to journal your feelings. Feelings can pop up at a moment's notice, and jotting down your feelings can help you see changes in how you feel. This can be a helpful reminder that feelings fluctuate with time.

Accepting the Pain

One of the biggest challenges of accepting somebody's death is not necessarily working through the pain, but rather accepting it is there in the first place. It is okay to feel the pain rather than to try to push it away. In fact, it can be helpful to do so.

Finding Meaning

Many people also struggle to find meaning in the difficult moments following a loss. You may find it helpful to search for meaning, even if it is something that only makes sense to you at that moment.

Hearing Peer Stories

Just as sharing can be helpful, so can hearing the stories of others. When you connect with other people over similar stories, you feel less alone and less isolated. This is beneficial because it allows you to see how others deal with similar circumstances, and it may show you other ways to cope as well.

Getting Helpful Tips From a Professional

You may also find it helpful to turn to a professional therapist in a time of grief. A professional can determine which areas you may need more support with and where you may be able to get more intensive help if necessary.

Turning to Others

Ultimately, grief support often involves looking for help from others. The people you love can help you, and so can new people. Support groups and therapy providers can provide you with additional help after a tremendous loss.