Avoid Unhealthy Grief
Bereavement Don’ts

Certain factors can contribute to unhealthy grief. Following is a list of bereavement don’ts.

• Do not avoid emotions - we must not bury how we feel – we must allow ourselves to feel and work through bereavement – “can’t go over it, can’t go under it, can’t go around it… we must go through it”
• Do not over-do – too much activity leads to exhaustion. While it can be healthy to exercise or clean, we must do these things in balance and moderation, not too little, not too much.

My ladies Sunday School teacher had a saying that I really liked, it is a great word picture, and I tried to put it into practice. “You can fall off the bridge on either side” I think that applies here.


• Do not abuse alcohol or drugs – This one is so important – if we over-partake of alcohol it only numbs the pain short term, it will not solve the problem. Drugs are also a great danger. Now if you are really struggling and are under a doctor’s care some medication might be helpful.

  The important thing here is to remember -

  

  Do NOT self-medicate!

• Do not hold yourself to unrealistic promises made to the deceased. Though it is most certainly honorable to keep your word, there are times when circumstances have changed. Examine - would your loved one hold you to this promise today if they were still alive?

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