Coping with grief
When dealing with grief, it is strongly advised that you try to open up about your feelings. This might be with someone you are close to – a friend or family member, but might also include a healthcare professional of counsellor.
Professional and confidential personal support is available through Gateshead Health. To find out more about this, please click the button below and visit our Personal Support page.
Specialist support can also be accessed via organisations such as Cruse Bereavement Care, who can also be reached via phone on 0808 808 1677.
Lifestyle changes may also support you in coping with loss. The NHS provides advice on useful and practical changes which can help you to feel in control.
One area of your everyday life that may be impacted by grief is your sleep. Those struggling to sleep might wish to take advantage of free access to apps such as Headspace and Unmind, or access free mental wellbeing audio guides for further advice on managing this problem.
Setting small, more easily-achievable targets can help get you through each day. Pressuring yourself with mammoth tasks will only add to the pressure. Equally, focusing on uncontrollable aspects will only waste your energy – focus your time on the things that you can control.
Finally, it is advised to avoid the use of mood altering stimulants such as alcohol, cigarattes, gambling and drugs. These may provide distraction, but ultimately they only exaggerate feelings and can lead to us feeling worse over longer periods.
