Overcoming the Death of a Loved One

The death of a loved one should not have to be an immobilizing event in one's life. Although, one needs time to grieve and move on we should not just move one but do something to improve ourselves. Life is meant to be enjoyed and a time to learn about yourself and do things great. How can you do any of that if you are so depressed over the death of a loved one? Regardless, of what you believe you should understand that; that deceased person would want you to move on with life and to not be held back.

I. Brief Explanation of the Grieving Process

There are four parts to the grieving process that should be allowed to follow course. They are Shock, Yearning, Disorientation, and Resolution. Again each must be fulfilled and completed in a certain amount of time if you do not you may end up suffering from Nostalgia.

In the Shock stage, there are feelings of being stunned associated with impaired judgment and functioning and short periods of concentration. During this stage they may be unable to listen or feel.

In the Yearning stage, The person exhibiting this particular process of grief may be restless, angry, guilty, and have ambiguity which means the person is doubtful or uncertain about what is going on in his/her life. Usually, people want to withdraw and be left alone. They may question what they believe about certain things and are so moved by the loss they may change there views on life.

In the Disorientation stage, Feelings associated with this are depression, guilt and unfamiliarity. This is the time when the illness or death becomes a "reality." People effected may start to change there own lifestyle that is more likely than not too unhealthy for themselves and others.