When tragedy strikes close to home, within our communities, or the world-at-large, we’re often left feeling helpless, voiceless, and confused. Grieve with Hope® is a campaign created to be the light at the end of an emotional tunnel.
On the cusp of the recent shootings in Baton Rouge, Minneapolis, and Dallas, many of us are searching for consolation and answers. Whether the tragedies struck our backyards or not, collectively, we were impacted. Our conversations have become strained. (Awkward work encounters, anyone?) Our thoughts stressed and spirits weighed down due to overwhelm and uncertainty. But you’re not alone. The person next to you likely shares your sentiment.
If you find yourself struggling emotionally right now, here are 6 tips to restore hope back into your heart and life. When grieving:
1. Find your spiritual center. In moments of tragic uncertainty, lean on your God or your Higher Power. Seek peace, faith, and positive energy by replenishing your spirit with scripture, affirmations, or the simplicity of stillness. Be it on a nature walk, in a synagogue, or on your yoga mat, allow yourself to reconnect with that which is greater than you.
2. Find the facts. In a whirlwind of media reports and social posts, it’s easy to be swept away in the emotions of others. Before you come to a conclusion about an issue or current event, do your own research. Get information. Devise your own well-informed, well-substantiated opinions.
3. Find a safe space. Don’t be afraid to retreat. Fall back from the internet. Avoid the constant stream of news and resist the urge to check your phone for minute-by-minute updates. Be mindful of your personal emotional threshold and how much you can handle in one day. Go to your peaceful place, get calm, and stay there until you feel ready to reenter the world again. Self-care is a necessity, and we strongly encourage it during the grieving process.
4. Find your power. You are stronger than you know. When losses or disappointments knock the breath of you, dig deep. Speak out. Write. Express your feelings creatively. Remember you have power and a voice. Use both to counteract feelings of helplessness and hopelessness.
5. Find support. Don’t suffer in silence. Go to the people who love you. Lift your spirits with the company of family and friends. Call somebody. Now is not the time to isolate yourself with your thoughts, but instead, share them and your feelings with people who care about you. They need you, too.
6. Find someone to give to. When hurting, help another. There is somebody—somewhere—who needs a life lift. It needn’t be anything big; the point is just to step outside of yourself for a bit. By helping someone else to find their joy, it will restore yours.
Never rush the grieving process. Everyone handles grief and pain differently, and the duration that it lasts will vary. But while you grieve, know that your hurt CAN heal. Where there is still life, there is always hope. Time, faith, hope and action heal all wounds.
Learn more about Grieve with Hope® at CaressaJ.com and @IamCaressJ. Follow the #GrieveWithHope hashtag for daily tips and inspiration.