Exploring Family Relationships

Relationships can bring meaning and purpose to a person's life. Most people define themselves by their relationships with their loved ones, whether those loved ones are friends, family members, or romantic partners. Unfortunately, relationships must sometimes come to an end. Death is an unfortunate reality of the world, and the death of a loved one can leave you feeling shaken to your core.

There's no easy way to get through the grief resulting from a loved one's death, but having the right kind of support can help. Grief support can help you maintain your equilibrium when you feel confused, frightened, and unsure after the death of a loved one. Here are three ways to seek the grief support you need:

1. Attend grief support groups.

Grief can feel isolating. When you're hurting, it may seem like no one could ever understand how you feel. It's true that your experience is unique, but others who have suffered losses may be able to relate to you. You can find support and camaraderie at a grief support group. Grief support groups allow people who have experienced loss to get together to share their feelings. Everyone gets a chance to talk if they feel like it. You may find that expressing your feelings aloud can help you heal.

2. Seek one-on-one support services.

Some people feel uncomfortable talking about their personal lives around groups of people. If you decide that group meetings aren't for you, you can take advantage of one-on-one grief support services. You can meet up with a grief counselor at regularly scheduled sessions to talk through your emotions. Healing from the death of a loved one can be a long and complicated process that brings up many different feelings. You may be sad, confused, angry, or even relieved that your loved one is no longer suffering. Your grief counselor will support you by making space for your feelings and providing helpful feedback.

3. Take advantage of hotlines.

Grief support hotlines can provide anonymous assistance for people who aren't ready to commit to in-person conversations. Most hotlines are available for callers to use 24/7, so you can reach out for help even if you find yourself in need in the middle of the night. Grief support hotlines can provide a lifeline in dark times. Many are provided free of charge. Hotline operators can provide additional resources for interested callers or simply listen.

Contact a grief support service for more information.