Supporting Others While Supporting Ourselves
Having an active support system when we lose a loved one is so important for the grieving process, and just as important is being there to support others in our life who may be experiencing the same feelings of grief during bereavement.
Supporting others during our own grieving process can be really challenging, especially when we are feeling the weight of our own grieving process taking a toll on us. The extra stress can cause us to struggle to maintain emotional balance and it is hard when you are the ‘go to’ person in your family or social group.
Supporting others who are grieving is important, but it should never come at the expense of our own health and wellbeing. We must look after ourselves first and foremost. So how can we do this?
- Look after yourself first
The old saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup so ensure during the grieving process you are taking time to look after yourself and ask yourself ‘how much can I afford to give at the expense of my own wellbeing.’ - Show empathy
When we are grieving ourselves, it can be hard to show empathy to others. Try validating their feelings and trying to relate to them. Grief changes over time, so it can be helpful to remember to meet people where they are at in their grief journey, rather than coming from a place of healing yourself. No two people will grieve in the same way. - Maintain your own support system
One of the most important points is to maintain your own support system. You cannot sacrifice your support system to be another. When going through the grieving process yourself, it’s important to remind yourself that you are also deserving of empathy and emotional validation and you will be a better support system, by having others look after you too.
If you are looking for a professional celebrant to help honour your loved one, contact one of our experienced celebrants to create a truly memorable day.
