Naples, Florida. - It will be difficult to find a person who has not suffered some kind of loss. And that loss, whether it's a friendship, a loved one, a pet or a job, affects each person differently. The David Lawrence Center for Behavioral Health in Naples said it's important for people to acknowledge and manage their pain.
"Grief is a natural emotional response to loss," says Laura Birney, clinical director of outpatient services at the David Lawrence Center. “My favorite way to describe grief is the whirlwind of emotional reactions that occur during the process. Until you find some peace.
Grief affects a person's mental health in many ways, he said.
"Grief under stress can be so mild that it's normal for people to have some symptoms of depression. And sometimes we don't realize these symptoms are there," she said.
Bernie said the depression was coming.
- sadness
- Inability to concentrate and function normally
- Changes in sleep and appetite
- Reluctance to participate in favorite activities
- Single
He says there are ways to deal with all these emotions, starting with feeling them.
"Accept that we're human and let yourself go through this process, even if it's a very painful process," Birney said.
He also advises.
- Join a support group
- Explore your spirituality
- Contact your friends or loved ones
- Develop healthy eating and sleeping habits
- Exercise regularly
If that doesn't help, says Birney, it's time to seek professional help. If your loved one is upset, the first thing you should do is show your support.
"I like to cook, babysit or invite someone to do something so I can get out of the house."
Birney says the most important thing for a grieving person is to listen.
"I understand it can be very difficult for friends and family members who don't know how to respond and help in a situation like this. But sometimes they need a listener," he said.
She says people who are grieving often turn to unhealthy coping methods, such as drug use, so if you're struggling with grief, it's important to get it under control.
Click here to learn more about the David Lawrence Center for Behavioral Health.