It can be painful losing someone you are close to, for example when someone you love dies, or when a relationship has ended in a breakup or divorce.
Dealing with the loss of a relationship is difficult. Besides losing the physical presence of someone close, you also lose shared dreams and commitments and changes to regular responsibilities and routines.
Most people would experience loss during the first few months and may feel intense sorrow, numbness, and even guilt and anger. However, it is possible to move forward by reminding yourself that you can face it and move on with support from your loved ones.
Coping with loss
The healing process will take time and you will need to be patient with yourself. Here are some ways for you to manage the loss of a relationship:
- Remember there is no timeline for coping with your loss. Do give yourself time and do not keep your emotions bottled inside. Grieve if you need to. Be aware that you will experience emotions ranging from sadness to anger. Get in touch with your own feelings as it is a step forward in your healing process.
- You do not have to face these changes alone. Share your feelings with your family and friends and they will be able to help you move on. You may also want to consider joining a support group. In sharing your own experiences and listening to others’ experiences, you will be able to receive some comfort and carry on. Gradually you will learn to accept your loss and move on.
- Do give yourself a break as you may not be able to function as optimally during this time as you would do normally. Take the time to heal and re-energise.
- Pick up a new skill or take up a course. Also, consider doing volunteer work. This will keep you occupied and shifts your focus from the loss.
- Draw strength from your religion. This may help keep you grounded and give you strength to let go.
- When you are ready, you might want to do something creative like writing a letter containing everything you would like to say to the person you lost. Other options include journaling your thoughts and feelings.
- If you are experiencing painful emotions over a long period, and feel you are unable to go on or that life is not worth living, do not ignore your feelings. Do seek professional help (Click here)