Uncomfortable Conversations: Loss of a Loved One

Ways in which grief can affect your body:

*Weakens the immune system

*Increase inflammation in the body

*Depression

*Conditions already being experienced may worsen or last longer than expected

*Loss of appetite

*Decreased or increased sleep

*Physical pain such has chest pain, headaches, etc

Ways to cope:

*Self care - continue to eat and sleep properly as well as take time to breathe

*Talk to friends and family. If need be seek out a counselor to talk to which can help you process your grief and guide you through it in a healthier way.

*Celebrate the person that is no longer physically here.

*Allow yourself to go through the emotions. Remember that there will be "peaks and valleys" of grief just don't get stuck in the valley.

*Plan ahead for the possibilities of days of sadness when anniversaries are coming that will remind you of that person.

*Ultimately, TAKE TIME TO GRIEVE. Do not ignore or "bottle up" the the pain.