GETTING THROUGH GRIEF AND LOSS

1. What you can do to help yourself

Although the pain of grief cannot be alleviated quickly, there are many things you can do to help yourself through a tough time.

• Stay connected to friends and family, and use support groups.
• Because some friends may be inclined to stay away, to offer you privacy, let them know how often you'd like to see them.

• Don't be afraid to ask for help.

• Stay healthy - Eat healthy meals, exercise regularly, get a good night's sleep and keep use of drugs and alcohol to a minimum.

• Manage stress - Lighten your load by asking friends, family members or work colleagues to help you with some chores or commitments. Relaxation and gentle exercise can be helpful.

• Make time to participate in enjoyable activities

2. How to help a person who is experiencing grief and loss.

• Listen to what the person says about what he/she is going through, but also talk about everyday things because life goes on.

• Support the person by initiating contact and by being available.

• Encourage the person to get help if he/she feels stuck.