How to cope with the loss of a loved one

The recent passing of Beau Biden, son to Vice President, Joe Biden, has shed light on grieving methods and placed added focus on the importance of having a support system during difficult times.

The way an individual grieves is a crucial process that relies on a number of factors, from their relationship with the deceased to their customs or beliefs.

The continued action of mourning an individual is an important process. When a loved one is lost, survivors are often left in a tangle of emotions, which can be a frustrating, and often painful, experience, experts say.

“Accompanying someone in grief does not mean one has to say the right words at the right time,” says the Rev. Fred Rajan, vice president of mission and spiritual care at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington, Ill. “Rather, being in silence with them, meeting them where they are, and leading them to the next level will be of great service.”

Although, everyone deals with loss differently, Rajan says there are five common forms of grief:

1. Denial
2. Anger
3. Bargaining
4. Depression
5. Acceptance

The National Center for Victims of Crime has these suggestions for coping with the death of a loved one:

• Find a support group.
• Seek professional help with a therapist.
• Acknowledge feelings of a loss.
• Be patient with others.
• Recognize your limits.

They also include a list of tips to assist those who are grieving:

• Ask what can be done to help.
• Listen.
• Provide information and support.

The mourning process can be exhausting and difficult. If a person is grieving, find a support system. If a person knows someone who is grieving, try and be the support system.

Survivors need assistance in order to rebuild their lives after a loss and every little bit helps, Rajan says.