For as emotionally heavy as grief can be, there often isn't enough conversation about the physical symptoms associated with such loss. But the grieving process can be intensely physical, with people noting all kinds of bodily sensations from chest pain to stomachaches to muscle tension. This speaks to the complex interplay between the mind and body. Understanding How Grief Affects...[ read more ]
The aging process is inevitable, but knowing that doesn't automatically make aging easier. Both men and women can struggle with getting older. While we've made some societal efforts to reduce ageist stereotypes, we still have a very long way to go, and this form of discrimination still runs rampant. As you transition from middle age to older age, it's important...[ read more ]
Research shows that nearly a quarter of adults aged 45-64 provided immediate assistance or care to a loved one in the past month. Over one-third of caregivers devoted at least 20 hours a week to caregiving. Caregiving can be rewarding and meaningful, especially if you're tending to a close friend or family member. When you're in charge, you can ensure...[ read more ]
Anger in grief is one of the most common emotions people experience. Regardless of what specifically happened, feeling angry is a normal reaction after a loss. You might be angry about the circumstances surrounding the loss itself. You may feel angry toward yourself for things you did or didn't do. And you might also feel angry toward your loved one...[ read more ]
Working while grieving can evoke difficult and tender emotions. Some people find that the structure and predictability of their jobs offer a welcome distraction during a tumultuous time. Others feel completely distracted, apathetic, and unable to complete the tasks at hand. No matter how much time you take off, returning to work can still be daunting, and grief doesn't ever...[ read more ]
Emotional safety in friendships can be defined as a felt sense of being respected and treated compassionately in a relationship. When we feel emotionally safe with another person, we generally feel free to be who we are. Even if conflict arises, there's a sense of confidence that you can come together to resolve the issue. With that, emotional safety inherently...[ read more ]
Passion is rarely a fixed state, and feeling passionate about something can wax and wane throughout life. However, staying connected to your passions can maintain your emotional well-being, improve your relationships, and give you a deeper sense of purpose. This can be especially important if you're navigating difficult life circumstances. Passion acts as an anchor, as something to hold onto,...[ read more ]
The experience of grief can be an intensely emotional whirlwind full of heightened emotions, grappling thoughts, and unexpected needs. Nobody can truly understand the full underpinnings of grief until they experience it first-hand. And with that, every type of grief stands as its own unique experience. Although loss can feel devastating and overwhelming, it can also pave a path for...[ read more ]
The grieving process often comes with many different emotions, ranging from sadness to anger to guilt to apathy. These emotions ebb and flow with their intensity, and some days will certainly feel more difficult than others. With that, many people find that getting involved with volunteer opportunities provides a sense of support and purpose during grief. While nothing can truly...[ read more ]
There is no shortcut, hack, or trick that can help expedite the intensity of complicated grief. The time after a loss can be tender, and it's often full of unexpected thoughts and emotions. Grief doesn't run on a specific timeline, and it's sometimes normal to wonder if you'll ever feel better again. The truth is that grief often pulls everything...[ read more ]