19 Aug Bereavement Strategies: Coping with Grief and Loss
When a loved one enters hospice care, the grieving process often begins long before the final goodbye. Anticipating loss, watching someone decline, and navigating the many changes that come with serious illness can be deeply emotional. At Aegis, we offer support through every stage of this journey. While grief is never simple, there are ways to care for yourself and find moments of peace along the way.
Understanding the Grieving Process
Grief does not follow a set timeline, and it does not look the same for everyone. Some people feel it all at once, while others experience it in small, quieter ways. For many, it comes and goes. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
When someone you love is nearing the end of life, grief may begin before death. You might mourn the changes in your relationship, the shift in your daily life, or the loss of future plans. This kind of early grief is just as real and valid as what comes after.
In the late 1960s, the concept of five common grief stages was introduced: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages are not steps to complete. People move through them at different times, in different ways, and some return to them unexpectedly.
Denial can feel like shock or numbness. You may find it hard to believe what is happening or want to pretend it is not real.
Anger may surface in many forms. It might be directed at medical staff, family, yourself, or even the person who is dying.
Bargaining often includes thoughts of “what if” or “if only”. This is the mind’s way of trying to find control in an uncontrollable situation.
Depression tends to show up when the full weight of the loss settles in. Sadness, fatigue, and withdrawal are common.
Acceptance comes when you begin to adjust to life after the loss. It does not mean you are okay with what happened, only that you are learning to live with it.
These stages can help you understand what you are feeling, but they are not a roadmap. It is normal to experience them in your own order or skip some altogether.
Ways to Cope with Grief
Healing takes time. While grief never fully disappears, small daily efforts can bring comfort and relief. Consider these strategies to help support yourself.
Talk with others. Sharing your feelings with trusted friends or family can ease the burden. You do not need advice. Sometimes, you just need someone to listen.
Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts and memories can help organize your feelings and give you a place to return to when you need to reflect.
Make space for grief. It can help to set aside time each day to let yourself feel whatever is coming up. Cry if you need to. Sit quietly. Let the emotions rise and fall without pushing them away.
Hold off on major changes. Losing someone brings enough disruption. Try to delay big decisions like moving or changing jobs until your emotions feel steadier.
Move your body. A walk, some stretching, or another form of gentle exercise can release tension and help you manage intense emotions.
Stay connected. Grief can feel isolating. Find ways to spend time with people you trust. Even a short lunch or phone call can offer support.
Lean on your spiritual practices. Prayer, meditation, music, or simply sitting in silence can offer comfort during times of sorrow.
Look back with love. Spending time looking through photos, letters, or videos can help you feel close to your loved one. You might also find peace in writing them a letter or speaking to them out loud.
Honor their memory. Volunteering, donating to a cause they cared about, or creating something in their honor can help you feel connected and purposeful.
Spend time with animals. Pets can be a source of calm and unconditional comfort. If you do not have one at home, consider visiting a local shelter or spending time with a friend’s pet.
Join a grief group. Being around others who are also mourning can reduce the feeling of isolation. Many support groups are available in person and online, including for those specific types of loss.
When Grief Feels Too Heavy
While many people gradually learn to live with their grief, sometimes the pain does not ease with time. If your grief is affecting your ability to function, it may help to speak with a professional.
Here are some signs that extra support could be helpful:
- Trouble sleeping for weeks or months
- Ongoing loss of appetite
- Constant feelings of guilt or hopelessness
- Neglecting your health or daily responsibilities
- Inability to return to work or routine activities
- Thoughts of self-harm or not wanting to go on
Grief counseling can provide a safe space to talk about your experience and learn new ways to cope. Whether one-on-one or in a group setting, this kind of support can make a real difference.
At Aegis, we understand that loss does not end when life ends. Our grief support services are available to help families navigate the difficult days before and after a loved one passes. Whether you need someone to talk to or a community to lean on, we are here.
To learn more about how we support families through hospice and bereavement care, please contact us today.