Losing a spouse is never easy, but it’s especially difficult when your loved one’s death resulted from someone else’s negligent actions. Along with the many practical and legal considerations following the death of a spouse, you’ll also have to navigate complex emotions during the grieving process. To help you on your journey, Very Well Mind offers the following advice.
Take care of yourself physically
It can be hard to care for yourself in the aftermath of a deep personal loss. However, doing so is often the first step to recovering some semblance of normalcy in your life. Even if it’s difficult, try to get enough rest each night and make sure you’re eating healthy, wholesome meals as much as possible. Doing so will prevent your mental and emotional health from degrading further. If you’re finding solace in alcohol, make sure you’re not drinking in excess, as this can actually worsen ill-feelings.
Expand your social circle
Now is a good time to make new friends, ones that are more in line with your life as a single person. While old friends are definitely comforting during times of need, you may feel awkward and out-of-sorts spending time in the presence of couples. Make sure your married friends are aware of this and let them know that you need some time before you can jump back into activities with them and their spouses.
Know when to seek professional support
Sometimes grief can overwhelm a person and prevent them from seeing to daily chores and tasks. In this case, consider speaking with a therapist or counselor to get a professional perspective on your feelings. This is especially important if you feel separated from the other people in your life or are entertaining thoughts of suicide. Mental health assistance is crucial in this case, as it can help you process your emotions in a healthy, constructive manner.