Coping with the loss of a loved one can be one of the toughest challenges most of us face. Though it can be a profoundly personal experience, there are simple and healthy ways to deal with the grieving process.

Here are 5 ways that might help you cope with the death of someone you love:

Allow Yourself to Experience Your Feelings.

Losing someone you love is a devastating emotional experience. You may experience a variety of feelings after your loss. Still, it’s essential that you feel what you feel, even if it’s terrible. It is natural to feel that way, and suppressing your feelings after loss is not a good idea. 

Find ways to express your thoughts and emotions even if you don’t want to talk. You can start writing in a diary about the memories of the person you’ve lost and how you feel since the loss. This can be done privately or shared with others — it’s your choice.

Express Your Feelings to Others When You Can.

Some people find it helpful to talk about their feelings regarding their loss. Your friends and family may not be able to give you direct advice, but merely having someone to listen can be cathartic. Sometimes you can help you work through your feelings out loud. Others may not feel like talking about a loss, but that’s okay. Open up and talk about it, but only when you’re ready for it. No one should feel under pressure.

Do What You Love — and What Makes You Happy.

The death of a beloved is a painful reminder that life is too short — and that loved one would want nothing more than to make you happy.

Keep yourself busy by taking the time to figure out what you love and what makes you happy. Set goals and plan to make your dreams a reality. Doing so will help make the time go faster and make each day seem more and more meaningful. 

Preserve Cherished Memories by Turning Them Into Treasures

Everyone chooses to remember their loved ones in their own way. One of which is by turning their cherished memories into a keepsake that they’ll treasure forever.

Planting a tree, creating a garden, taking part in a charity run or walk are ideal ways to create a memorial or tribute to the person who died. Another way is to shop cremation jewelry, which is a unique and beautiful way to keep your loved one close to your heart.  

Join a support group. 

You don’t have to deal with your feelings of pain alone. Some people find support groups very helpful in dealing with personal losses. Talking to others who have had the same experience can give you insight into how to deal with it. You can look for either an online support group or any support groups in the hospitals or counseling centers in your area.

There are many other ways to help you cope with your beloved’s loss. And although healing may take days, months, or years, just remember — with support, patience, and effort, you will survive grief. Be kind and patient with yourself as you move forward into a full and meaningful life knowing that one day you will wake up and find the pain is less, and life can go on.