Get the Help You Need
If you are struggling with your grief, don't get stuck! There are resources out there for you, even if you feel you are all alone. Grief has it's ups and downs. Some days you may feel like you are ok and other days you may feel like you are drowning! We want you to know that we are praying for you. Below are some suggestions on getting help when you are dealing with the loss of a loved one.
seek counseling
Your mental health is important. Never be afraid to seek therapy! Get online and look up counselors in your area. Make sure to find a counselor that you would feel comfortable with. You do not just have to talk to the counselor about your loss only. Talk to them about everything you are feeling. It's good to get all of your feelings out. Do not hold them inside. We suggest seeing a counselor at least once a week. If you have health insurance through your job, see if they offer an Employee Assistance Program (EAP). If they have it, you may be able to see a counselor at no cost to you for 3 to 6 sessions.
attend church
No, we don't go to church every week. We don't pretend to be perfect. We may cuss and fuss now and then. However, we believe in GOD! We may not always understand or like His decisions, but we know He is real. We understand that some people don't believe and we don't judge. We know God because we have experienced His presence. We can't treat people differently just because they haven't found out about His goodness YET! We encourage you to attend church if you can. We hope that you visit different churches until you find the right church home for you.
grief support groups
My cousin Lisa Gilliam suggested that I try a grief support group called GriefShare. I am glad that I did. It was a 13-week program that was entirely virtual. The group I was in used to meet up in person before the pandemic. I came in on week 7. They welcomed me with open arms. They understood my cries. They gave me a workbook. They had sessions where my family could attend. I found it very helpful. It is suggested that you complete the program more than once. Since I came in on week 7, I finished out that program and came back when they started with week 1 again. When I reached the last class, I could definitely tell the difference. If you are struggling with your grief, you can check your local area for GriefShare groups by clicking here.
If GriefShare isn't for you, you can also check with hospitals or counselors that can suggest a group.
OhioHealth offers a grief support program at The Koebacker House in Columbus, Ohio. They have a great program! You can find out more about that by clicking here.
prayer
Never underestimate the POWER of PRAYER! When you are grieving, you may find it hard to talk to God or anyone for that matter. You may be angry with God. If you feel like you can't talk to God, consider writing your thoughts down. This is a form of praying. You can also reach out to family & friends to ask them to pray for you as well. If you feel like you are alone, you can click the link below and let us know how you feel. We will pray for you!
Do not Rush yourself
Take your time. Healing takes time. It will be HARD, but YOU GOT THIS!