Ask The Experts
My younger sister died after a long battle with cancer and I just can’t get out of this rut. I just don’t have any energy to go to work, see friends, or do just about anything. What can I do?
There is no time limit for grief and the healing process can be different for each person. Generally, the most painful symptoms begin to subside after several weeks. Taking good care of yourself, keeping to routines as much as possible, and making time to process all the emotions that accompany loss, will all make a difference. Group support can be particularly helpful with grief, and can take the form of grief support programs or simply making regular time to be with other family and friends who are also feeling the loss.
EFR counselors can also help support you in coping with a loss of loved one and/or help you locate grief support services in your community. And they can help you determine if your symptoms might need medical evaluation to rule out a more serious type of depression.
Reply Posted By: Gail Peitzmeier, Ed.D, RD, LD - Female, Des Moines, IA, 50309 Date Posted: 10/26/2012 11:15:01 AM Expert Reply
There is no time limit for grief and the healing process can be different for each person. Generally, the most painful symptoms begin to subside after several weeks. Taking good care of yourself, keeping to routines as much as possible, and making time to process all the emotions that accompany loss, will all make a difference. Group support can be particularly helpful with grief, and can take the form of grief support programs or simply making regular time to be with other family and friends who are also feeling the loss. EFR counselors can also help support you in coping with a loss of loved one and/or help you locate grief support services in your community. And they can help you determine if your symptoms might need medical evaluation to rule out a more serious type of depression.