Emotional Health: Combatting Grief and Depression

Super Typhoon Yolanda (international name Haiyan) just recently hit the Philippines. Many have lost their homes, property, and worst, their loved ones.  Those people and almost everyone on this planet have or will experience grief and depression with the death of a loved one, a debilitating illness or injury, a divorce, or a catastrophic event.

Grief, according to the book 365 Health Hints, usually consists of five stages: shock, denial, anger, depression, and finally acceptance.  Recovery varies from person to person; it takes some people longer than others to recover, so grief shouldn't be ignored or rushed.

The following, continues the article, can help overcome grief:

• Don't hide your emotions or feel embarrassed about grief.
• Turn to supportive friends and family members for help and understanding.
• Cope with anger over your loss by writing in a journal, pursuing a physical activity, or otherwise venting your feelings in a constructive way.
• Substitute a positive thought for every negative thought that pops in your head.
• Do not overeat or use alcohol and drugs in response to grief.
• Be sure to eat a well-planned, nutritious diet and get enough rest and exercise, to boost your resistance to disease during your period of despair.
• Avoid spending birthdays, holidays, or other momentous occasions alone.
• Put off major decisions or changes until your grief has passed, since your judgment will be cloudy at this time.
• To focus your attention away from yourself, do something to help someone else.
• If you feel overwhelmed and unable to function, seek professional counselling.  

Lastly, it's best to keep in mind that whatever happens in our lives, happens for a reason. We may not know or see it yet, but each breath, each leaf that falls from a tree has a purpose.

Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com