Funeral homes in Orlando and around the world are witness to many symptoms of grief. The grieving process can be an arduous one, especially when the loss was extremely difficult or unexpected. Depression, anger, guilt, and a multitude of frustrating and often overwhelming emotions are a normal and expected part of the path towards healing. While many may seem to process their loss and move on very quickly, some people need more time and must take additional steps to move forward. As with any emotional or spiritual struggle, there are small activities and habits that one can try to transform the confusion of loss into a healthier outlook.
Build a Memorial
Make a spot in the house to place a framed picture and a few favored tokens that elicit cheerful memories. Often, if a person’s belongings are removed too quickly it exacerbates the feeling of loss. Experts recommend that you clean the person’s room, make the bed, and leave out a few important belongings, as if the room were still inhabited for a short while. The key here is to alleviate the shock, allowing yourself time to accept the change before moving forward.
Carry a Keepsake
Wearing a small token or piece of jewelry to remind you of someone you have recently lost is a healthy option. Many Orlando funeral homes offer commemorative jewelry sealed with cremated ashes or a lock of hair. A keepsake will create a physical symbol of an emotional connection, a reminder that the love still exists even after someone is no longer with us.
Keep a Journal
Mourning involves complex emotions that can be difficult to fully express and understand. In putting your thoughts on paper, you allow yourself to accept and fully comprehend these emotions. This tactic is especially useful for people who are not comfortable speaking their feelings aloud.
Start a Tradition
Cultures and individuals around the world all have rituals for coping. Any funeral home in Orlando will offer a range of traditional memorial services as a means of solace for the families. Wearing black, putting out flowers, or visiting a particular location are all completely acceptable methods for translating your grief into physical gestures. A healthy expression of sorrow is a fundamental part of healing.
Practice Altruism
Studies have shown that people who perform selfless acts of generosity experience a stronger positive emotional response than people who receive generosity from others. Our instinct to be accepted in society and to view ourselves as intrinsically good directly affects our ability to feel optimistic and happy. If your own loss seems overwhelming, spend time focusing on good deeds you can do for others.
Reach Out and Stay Active
Above all, be willing to share your grief openly and honestly. Mourning is difficult because we are so inclined to seek understanding and develop solutions. The overall goal of grief is to reach a state of acceptance. Acceptance does not mean that your feelings are any less important or passionate, only that you have learned to harness those emotions into a healthy and productive outlet.