How to Cope With the Loss of a Child
We all know that it is burdensome when people have to prepare funeral services for their kin. This task becomes even more difficult when a parent has to bury a child. Such a tragic notion goes against the natural law of life. After all, younger children are always expected to outlive their much older parents. Anyone who has gone through this heartbreaking experience will tell you that when a child dies, a part of your adult spirit dies along with them.
Death in itself takes a toll on those who are left grieving, most especially if the life that is lost was born from your own flesh and blood. Nothing can ever prepare a parent for this tragic fate. Though it seems unlikely as the circle of life opposes this concept, sadly, losing a child can still happen. How then, are parents supposed to cope when the unthinkable happens? Here are some suggestions to help you and your kin move on from the death of your most beloved child.
Rely On a Strong Support System
A good and strong support system is part and parcel of healing. When the world feels as if it is conspiring against you, there’s no shame in asking for help. Besides, your loved ones are surely more than willing to help you out with your responsibilities. Even just their presence and listening ear is already a great source of comfort. This maybe your family, friends, colleagues, neighbors, or even strangers in a support group. It is easier to cope with difficult times when there are people around to guide, comfort, and uplift you. Having people who listen and genuinely care for you will help you manage your loss.
Go On a Sabbatical
When your emotions are in turmoil, a sabbatical is a great way to find calm and peace. Take time off from work and your usual daily routine to grieve. You may go on a hike or go out of town for a weekend. Spending time away from home gives you a chance to rest your weary heart and mind. Grieving is a painful process that drains energy, especially when you see nothing but funeral flowers or other painful reminders of your loss. Sometimes, a change in the environment can help you cope with the pain. Being away from a sentimental place that you associate with your late child may make it easier for you to process your burdensome emotions.
Get Started On a New Hobby
Finding a new hobby is a great way to redirect your grief. Trying out new things will means channeling your feelings into a healthy coping mechanism. It is better to convert your grief into a positive outlet. The hobby doesn’t have to be fancy to be effective. It can be a simple task like baking, sewing, painting, or engaging in sports. Releasing your pent up feelings will do your body and mind a world of good. Keeping yourself engaged provides a sense of calm. Hopefully, you will be able to ruminate and reevaluate your life. A concrete output resulting from creative expression feels rewarding. It allows you to reclaim your life, instead of being consumed by grief and sorrow. Activities help you let go, so you don’t wallow in self-pity and bitterness.
Seek Professional Care
Grief can be understandably overwhelming, especially when the loss of your child is sudden and tragic. If it becomes unbearable and difficult to handle even with the help of the aforementioned coping tools, it is better to seek professional counsel. Finding solace with a psychologist or therapist will help you understand your difficult emotions. You may be feeling confused, anxious, and depressed at the injustice of your situation. Talking with a counselor arms you with coping tools to process what is going on. Acknowledging your loss a therapist’s guidance will allow you to grasp your situation fully, so you can handle things with grace.
Spend Time in Prayer
Should you believe in religion, one effective way to help you manage your child’s loss is to spend time in prayer. When you lift your feelings to your deity, you are unburdening your heart, mind, and soul. As such, you take a huge load off your chest! Spending time in prayer will help you reflect on your situation, giving you hope, providing peace, and allowing you to come to terms with your emotions.
Final Word
Losing a child is never easy, but it would also be a huge disservice to your child’s memory if you do not let go and move on with life. Your child will not rest in peace if live the rest of your life in perpetual sadness. A child will never want to be the reason for his or her parent’s sorrow. The most beautiful thing you can do is to live a beautiful life in your child’s honor.
