Talking About Your Feelings Helps

As I emphasize in my Six-Word Lessons on Coping with Grief, one of the most important things a grieving person can do is express what they are feeling.

A compassionate counselor offering support and comfort to a distressed individual during a therapy session.

Don't keep it all inside. Talk about your sadness, your fears, your anger, your confusion, and your cherished memories.

Find someone you trust—a close friend, a family member, a pastor or other spiritual leader, a

grief support group, or, if needed, a grief counselor. Simply talking about your loss can be one of the most powerful steps toward healing.

You do not necessarily need a psychiatrist or psychologist simply because you are grieving. Grief is not a mental illness. It is a natural response to losing someone—or something—you deeply loved.

Of course, if your grief becomes overwhelming, persists without improvement, or begins to interfere with your ability to function, seeking help from a licensed mental health professional who specializes in grief issues is a wise and courageous decision. And if you feel the need to speak with a PhD or MD professional, by all means, do so.

The important thing to remember is this: you are not broken. You have been wounded by loss,

and wounds need care to heal. Sharing your thoughts and emotions with others often helps that healing come sooner than trying to carry the burden alone.

Be well. Be strong.

—Shirley