Watch Our for These Unhealthy Coping Methods for Losing a Loved One

Losing a loved one is never easy, no matter how many times you may have experienced it before. Dealing with loss can be confusing, infuriating, and difficult. It is important that we make sure we do not cope with loss in a negative manner since we are extremely vulnerable at such times.

So, if you or anyone is grieving, make sure to watch out for these unhealthy coping methods.

• Denial

Denial can come in many forms. The most obvious is unwilling to accept that your loved one has gone. People who are in denial may still talk about the deceased in the present tense, as if they are still alive. Another form is talking about the death as if it happened recently, even though it may have been months or years.

• Engaging in risky behavior

A common unhealthy coping method is to engage in risky behavior such as excessive drinking, consuming drugs, becoming physically violent and aggressive, acting out sexually, etc. These types of behavior, if not treated, can damage the person in the long run.

• Becoming depressed or anxious or both

Being sad about the loss of a loved one is normal, even if it’s been some time since the death. However, there is a huge difference between being sad and being depressed. If the person is continuously moody, anxious, cries excessively and is unable to go about with his or her daily life, it is definitely a sign of depression.

• Significant changes in personality

Someone who is mourning may undergo significant changes in personality if he or she does not cope in a healthy manner. For example, they may overeat or stop eating, become extremely moody, etc. In other words, they often become someone they weren’t before they lost that person.

Any person exhibiting these characteristics may need to seek professional help. Encourage them.

Thanks for reading,

Karen