Grief and Anxiety
When Grief Meets Anxiety.
Grief and anxiety. I haven't share much about my grief story on this website, but I lost my dad unexpectedly when I was 23 years old. He was only 52. What resulted after was what I referred to as "grief induced anxiety" by no means am I claiming to be a medical professional, it's just how I can best describe the feeling. I was so worried I was going to lose more people I loved because the reality off mortality became all to real.
Examples of Anxiety in Grief:
Anxiety not knowing if you'll lose more people you love.
Anxiety related to an unexpected death.
Anxiety not knowing what happens after this life.
Anxiety feeling like people are judging the way you're grieving.
Anxiety not knowing how much time you have left.
Anxiety not knowing how to live a life without your loved one.
"I can't lose anyone else."
It feels like after a loved one passes, there is this sudden fear that another person you love will pass away. I called in grief induced anxiety, but I'm not sure if there is an actual name for this feeling. It's just a new worry, because the thought of losing anyone else feels like too much to handle.
Ways to Cope with Anxiety and Grief
Seek professional help. I'm a big fan of therapy and my first suggestion will always be to seek out a professional if you need it.
Speak about your anxieties with others. Friends, grief support group, family, anyone who will listen. You do not have to experience this alone.
Write it out. My personal coping mechanism of choice is to write. It helps getting the feelings in my head onto paper.
Try relaxation techniques. There are a lot of apps that teach you breathing exercises, meditation, and ways to calm your mind.