Understanding and Managing Grief, October 1 - October 7, 2023

Best selections from Grief Healing's X stream this week:

In short, eventually you may well find an accommodation with your grief. I suppose that’s one of the few lessons I’ve learned in those four years. Not a happy accommodation perhaps, but enough of one to get you through the days and weeks and months and, now, years. That said, every so often grief will casually raise its head to remind you that it hasn’t finished with you. That it never will. That it is part of your make-up for the rest of your time on this planet. Every so often, grief will remind you it hasn't finished with you « The Herald

Grief is a natural process. Grief can’t be cured. It can, however, be felt, witnessed, experienced, and ultimately tolerated. The human brain is wired for both connection and heartbreak. Understanding the neuroscience of loss can promote emotional well-being. Why Good Grief Matters « Psychology Today

When you’re grieving the death of a family member or friend, you may dread the holiday season. Thoughts of social gatherings, family traditions, and obligations leave you anxious and overwhelmed. Your sadness can seem unbearable. You may wish you could skip these next two months and go straight to the routine of the next year—but you can’t. What can you do to lessen your stress and loneliness? Facing the holidays after bereavement « Daily Advocate 

Suicide is the 10th-leading cause of death in the United States, according to JAMA Network. In fact, each year, nearly 45,000 Americans die by suicide (44,834 in 2020). But, we must remember that for every suicide that results in death, there are many attempts. That’s why AfterTalk has put together some tips and resources to help you prioritize emotional wellness and recognize the warning signs that indicate it’s time to seek help. Four Things to Know about Emotional Wellness and Suicide Prevention « AfterTalk

The University of Arizona researcher – a leader in the field of studying the psychological and physiological impacts of grief – discusses the gaps she thinks need to be filled in understanding how the brain handles grief. How the brain handles grief: A Q&A with Mary-Frances O'Connor « The University of Arizona

Most people expect to feel better after that first year of bereavement, as if they've reached some sort of significant milestone in their grief journey. Unfortunately, this is another of those myths about grief that simply does not hold true. In Grief: Still Struggling After The First Year « Grief Healing

What do you say to someone who is hurting inside and afraid to ask for help?Just having someone who cares enough about you to listen and not judge is very important. Our words can sometimes get in the way, which is why listening is so important. When you talk and listen, do it with an open heart and an open mind and do not judge the person. Our Words and Actions « Psychology Today

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