Treat Trauma & Grow Through Grief

Grief is not limited to the life and death of a loved one. Experiencing any sort of trauma or drastic change causes us to feel grief; grieving is a part of life.

We need to take the time to treat our traumas. Then we may grow with it, carrying our grief rather than drowning in it.

Change is constant. We have all experienced sudden changes in our lives, and we all have a lot to grieve. Whether you have:​

• Lost a loved one

• Lost a job or are experiencing financial insecurity

• Couldn’t see loved ones for long periods of time

• Experienced or witnessed a traumatic event

• Move, lose a safe place, or no longer live at home

• Graduate and move through big life stages

• Been forced into an environment of high stress or sudden change

You are not alone. Other people have experienced these changes, the losses and the aftermath of them, the ups and downs of life. While grief is so unique to each person, it can be so valuable in our lives to share it and lean on others.

Post-pandemic life will bring along a grief crisis as so many have lost loved ones, a sense of safety, and a sense of selves – but from this trauma and tragedy, we can grow.

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• COVID Has Put the World at Risk of Prolonged Grief Disorder

• ‘Pandemic grief’ proves especially devastating and complex for many in mourning, health experts say

• The Post Pandemic ‘New Normal’ May Come with Grief

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The first step in the process is taking the time to treat trauma. Unaddressed stressors and ignoring trauma can cause long-term damage to health and well-being, especially at a young age.

These aren’t always the big and major traumas – small traumas can cause lasting damage to the body and mind if we keep them buried inside us.

Together we gain strength – share your grief and embrace change. It will help you not just get through your trauma but grow with it as it will always be part of you and who you will become.

Grow the legacy of love that you want for the future. Here are some ways people have honored their loved ones:

• Plant a tree or make a garden

• Raising awareness and/or contributing to a cause they cared for

• Writing them a letter, poem, song, etc

• Friends/family gatherings to honor them

Remember, each loss is unique and deserves its own attention. Grief can damage and defeat us; grief can leave us feeling lonely no matter how many people we have surrounding us. Finding a way to remain feeling connected with your loved one and make peace with the loss is crucial to the healing process.

Grief isn’t linear, nor does it follow a timeline or pattern. Be kind to yourself while grieving and take plenty of time to heal. Seek extra help, comfort, and support from family, friends, and professionals during this time in your life.