Pearlman & Associates

655 Craig Road
St. Louis, MO 63141

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7 Ways to Help Deal with Loss

7 Ways to Help Deal with Loss

By: Dr. Lena Pearlman, LCSW – Therapist and Clinical Director of Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates

The definition of loss is, “The state or feeling of grief when deprived of someone of value.” As humans, we all experience a full range of emotions when we lose someone that we care about or value. This is always a difficult process and one that we all would like to avoid if at all possible. While this is difficult, there are some things that we can do to help during this process.

1) Grieve & Mourn: Take time to grieve and mourn. While this does not feel good, it is an important part of dealing with a loss. Grieving and mourning are both natural and a necessary part of healing.

2) Friends & Family Can Help (Don’t Lock Them Out): It is understandable that people want to be alone when they are sad and grieving. Isolation is not a healthy way to deal with a loss. Family and friends can be there for you and help to share in your sorrow.

3) Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself: While your focus is on the person that has died, you can’t forget about your health and well-being. Grieving consumes a significant amount of physical and mental energy. It also interferes with your ability to sleep, eat, and continue with your regular routines. You have to work hard to take care of your physical and mental needs.

4) Acknowledge Your Feelings and Pain: Accept that what you are feeling is part of dealing with grief and moving toward a state of healing and acceptance. It is important to acknowledge these feelings.

5) Don’t Make Rash Decisions While Grieving: Loss and grieving can cloud your judgment. Unless absolutely necessary, wait a while before making life changing decisions while dealing with a loss (large purchases, relocation, changing jobs, relationships, etc.).

6) “Time Eases All Things”: The quote from Sophocles is true. However, feelings of loss and emptiness may never completely go away. It is important to accept and embrace this. It will help you to adapt and move on to your new normal.

7) Consult a Therapist or Counselor:  A skilled and caring therapist can help you move along the grieving process. They are excellent listeners and experienced in helping during a time of loss.

Dr. Lena Pearlman is a mental health therapist and clinical director of Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates. Her practice is located in Creve Coeur, Missouri. Dr. Lena Pearlman & Associates has a team of six licensed therapists. The therapists specialize in stress, anxiety, depression, relationships, grieving/loss, and other mental health related issues. The practice can be reached by phone at: 314-942-1147, by email at: bryan@stlmentalhealth.com and online at: www.STLmentalhealth.com. The office is located in St. Louis County at: 655 Craig Road, Suite 300, St. Louis, MO 63141.

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