Feelings of panic and confusion often follow the death of a loved one. These feelings can cause us to run from life, to avoid family and friends and to refuse to try new things. While these feelings are a normal part of grief, our willingness to accept the loss can help us to overcome these negative emotions.
At times during the grieving process, we find that familiar and necessary activities are difficult. We prefer to drift in our memories and daydreams of what might have been. This stage will pass.
Many people blame themselves after the death of a loved one. It’s important to realize that everyone has regrets for mistakes made in relationships, but focusing on guilt can prevent recovery. Talking with friends or a counselor can aid us in confronting and dealing with feelings of guilt.
Grief changes, but it does not have to destroy a person’s life. It can be a time of real personal growth as you discover new things about yourself and the strength you have now developed through the grief experience.
Finally, we realize that love endures and that life goes on for the survivors. These things become even more precious to us as we realize that they do not last forever.