Honoring Life, Embracing Memories

Tag: Grief

  • Feeling Off in 2025? What Grief, Burnout, and Shifting Seasons Might Be Saying

    Feeling Off in 2025? What Grief, Burnout, and Shifting Seasons Might Be Saying

    ✯ Table of Contents

    🌿 A Note Before We Begin

    This isn’t just another article about grief or burnout. It’s a gentle, grounded guide for anyone going through loss, transition, or emotional unraveling—especially when life is already shaky.

    You might be grieving a death. Or maybe you’re grieving something harder to name—your career path, your sense of purpose, the version of yourself that used to feel whole. Lately, it seems more and more of us are carrying invisible weights we don’t know how to talk about.

    This guide offers language for what you’re feeling, space to breathe, and spiritual insight that doesn’t rush to fix you. It doesn’t pretend to hold all the answers—but it hopes to walk with you toward steadier ground.

    Along the way, we’ll also explore what Christian prophets are saying—because strangely, and profoundly, their words have been aligning with what many of us are living through. Whether or not you consider yourself religious, it might be worth paying attention.

    Each section unpacks a layer of what you may be carrying: emotional weariness, cultural upheaval, spiritual shaking, personal loss—and how to begin again in a world that no longer feels familiar.

    Wherever you are in your process, may this meet you there.

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    🕊️ Invisible Grief: Why So Many Feel Emotionally Exhausted Right Now

    You’re not imagining it.

    There’s a heaviness in the air—one that words like “stress” or “tired” don’t fully capture. Even those who haven’t lost someone recently are grieving something: who they used to be, what they thought life would become, the safety they assumed would last.

    And if you have lost someone—especially while juggling the fragile pieces of everything else—then it’s more than sorrow. It’s disorientation. A sense that the ground itself has shifted, and you can’t find the horizon.

    This is invisible grief.

    Not always the kind with funerals or condolences—but the kind that lingers when your identity, security, or story is quietly slipping through your fingers. It’s the ache of becoming someone new without meaning to. Psychologist Kenneth Doka calls this disenfranchised grief—the kind society doesn’t always recognize, but that lives in us all the same (Doka, 2002).

    And according to trauma researcher Bessel van der Kolk, this kind of invisible loss doesn’t just affect the mind—it leaves an imprint on the body, too. We carry the stress physically, often without knowing why (van der Kolk, 2014).

    What makes it harder is how strangely collective it feels. So many people are unraveling in parallel. So many are whispering, “Something is off,” without knowing why.

    Could there be something beneath it all?

    We’ll name the griefs that don’t often get named. We’ll explore what prophetic voices have been saying for years, and why their words are echoing loudly now. We’ll also look to the skies—literally—and consider whether what’s happening above us might help us make sense of what’s happening within us.

    Because if this ache is shared… maybe so is the hope.

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    🔥 What’s Causing Emotional Burnout in 2025 (And Why It’s Not Just You)

    Even if you haven’t lost someone, you may still feel like something is slipping: your sense of purpose, your drive, your belief that life should feel more stable by now.

    It’s not just burnout. It’s something deeper—emotional fatigue, spiritual burnout, a quiet unraveling happening across industries, relationships, and identities. A sense that the ground has shifted, and no one handed you a new map.

    So what’s really behind this collective weariness?

    • Economic anxiety isn’t just about dollars—it’s about fear. Even those with good jobs worry they’re one layoff away from chaos (APA, 2023).
    • Success has changed shape. It’s no longer enough to be good at your job. You’re expected to have a calling, a brand, a clear purpose—and that pressure can be paralyzing (Pratt et al., 2006).
    • Work-life balance has eroded. Devices keep us half-working even while resting. We’re always reachable, never truly restored (Maslach & Leiter, 2016).
    • Comparison culture floods us with curated images of other people’s wins, leaving us unsure whether we’re behind—or just invisible (Huang, 2017).
    • Corporate trust is fading. Layoffs, pivots, and instability have made people question if any role is truly secure (APA, 2023).
    • And under it all, a quiet ache. A question few dare to say aloud: What if I don’t want this life anymore?

    Layer these pressures on top of personal grief, family stress, or spiritual fatigue—and it’s more than stress. It’s a slow unraveling of identity, security, and clarity all at once.

    And if all of this feels bigger than personal stress—maybe it is.

    Maybe something spiritual is stirring underneath the unraveling.

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    📖 What Christian Prophets Are Saying About This Season of Change

    Is this discomfort spiritual? What prophetic voices are noticing—and why it might matter.

    Maybe you’ve had this thought lately:

    “Everything feels off—but I can’t tell if it’s me… or something bigger.”

    That sense isn’t new—and it’s not just yours.

    In many Christian traditions, prophetic voices are people who listen closely for God’s heart—not to predict headlines, but to help interpret the times. And for years now, some of these voices have been pointing to a season just like this.

    They call it a divine repositioning.

    Prophets like Kris Vallotton, Lana Vawser, and others have described this as a global shaking—one that reaches into both personal lives and public systems. Not to destroy, but to shift. To break the illusion of control. To prepare people for what’s next. And what they’ve said feels strangely aligned with what many are now living.

    1. Shaking before repositioning

    That sense that your old rhythm no longer fits? It may not be failure—it may be spiritual movement. Prophetic voices suggest that God often allows discomfort to dislodge us from what’s too small. What feels like chaos might be permission to let go.

    “God offends the mind to reveal the heart.” — Kris Vallotton

    2. Transfer of influence

    Many have spoken about a “Joseph and Daniel moment”—a season where those who’ve been faithful in hidden places are being quietly prepared for influence. Not for fame, but for fruitfulness. You may not feel ready. But maybe your readiness isn’t the point.

    3. Marketplace revival

    This isn’t just happening in churches. Prophetic voices believe God is moving in business, education, tech, media—in the middle of everyday work. If your job has felt strangely unsettled, it might not be punishment. It might be preparation.

    4. Refinement of identity

    Perhaps most deeply, this shift is about identity. God may be stripping away false metrics—“I’m only valuable if I’m productive,” “If I’m not thriving, I’m failing.” What’s left isn’t emptiness—it’s truth. Who you are when nothing performs.

    5. The unveiling of the hidden ones

    Prophets like Lana Vawser have described this season as one where God is bringing His “hidden ones” into view—not through striving, but through divine timing. Whether you’ve been healing, raising children, serving quietly, or simply holding things together behind the scenes—this may be your unveiling.

    “The ones who have felt unseen, forgotten, and hidden—this is the hour where the Lord is bringing them into greater visibility for His glory.” — Lana Vawser

    This isn’t performance. It’s permission. A holy release into the next thing—just as you are.

    Some call this a shift. Others call it a calling. But either way, it’s a pattern too consistent to ignore.

    Even if you’re not sure what you believe, maybe part of you has already felt it:

    • The old way doesn’t fit.
    • You’re between stories.
    • And something sacred is stirring beneath the surface.

    It’s the moment midair—after releasing one trapeze bar, before catching the next.

    You’re not falling. You’re just between.

    Could it be that what feels like obscurity… was always preparation?

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    ✨ Celestial Signs in May 2025: Biblical Meaning and Prophetic Insight

    What if the sky isn’t just beautiful—but intentional?

    Maybe you’ve looked up recently—at the moon, the stars, or a flash of meteor light—and felt something you couldn’t explain. A stirring. A pause. A sense that the timing of it all means more than we think.

    Throughout scripture, the heavens are more than backdrop—they’re message-bearers.

    “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims His handiwork.” — Psalm 19:1

    From the star over Bethlehem to the apocalyptic signs in Revelation, the biblical narrative uses celestial movement not for fortune-telling—but for timing. Divine moments often echo in the skies. And in May 2025, many believe we’re standing beneath one of those echoes.

    What May 2025 Is Revealing

    • May 3–4: Eta Aquariid Meteor Shower

      Formed from remnants of Halley’s Comet, these meteors streak the sky before dawn. In prophetic imagery, meteors often represent sudden insight—divine interruptions that illuminate what’s been there all along.

    • May 12: Full Flower Micromoon

      This distant full moon symbolizes hidden growth. It may not look large, but its presence reminds us: not all flourishing is loud. Some of the most sacred change happens in quiet places.

    • May 14: Pesach Sheni (Second Passover)

      A biblical “do-over” date. In Numbers 9, God allowed those who missed Passover the first time to celebrate a month later. It’s a reminder: you haven’t missed your moment. Redemption still reaches.

    • May 15–16: Lag BaOmer

      Traditionally a break in a season of mourning, this Jewish holiday brings light and joy into heavy times. It represents breakthrough in the middle of grief.

    • May 26: New Moon

      In ancient Israel, new moons marked the beginning of sacred cycles. It was a moment to pause, reset, and step forward into what’s next (Numbers 28:11–15).

    • May 29: Ascension Day

      Honoring the moment Jesus was taken into heaven, Ascension is not about endings—it’s about commissioning. The moment where waiting turns into movement. “Go.”

    These dates may seem unrelated—but they trace a clear arc: from divine interruption… to hidden growth… to second chances… to joy… to renewal… to release.

    This Isn’t Prediction. It’s Invitation.

    You don’t have to believe in signs. But you’re allowed to wonder.

    Maybe you’ve felt it already—something stirring in you. A direction. A question. A truth you’ve known for a while but haven’t yet moved toward.

    Christian prophets aren’t saying to look for fireworks. They’re saying: notice the alignment. Let the sky remind you that God’s timing is never random. And neither is yours.

    Some believe what May 2025 is saying is this:

    The shaking has done its work. The delay has had its meaning. Now… it’s time to begin.

    You don’t need full clarity. You just need one true step.

    “There will be signs in the sun, moon, and stars… When these things begin to take place, stand up and lift your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” — Luke 21:25–28

    Even if all you have is a flicker of faith, even if all you feel is tired—look up anyway.

    Look up. Breathe. Begin.

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    💔 Grieving When the Loss Is Personal

    What if the thing that broke wasn’t your job… but your heart?

    We’ve just explored the idea that this season of shaking might be spiritual—that perhaps God is allowing certain things to fall away so that something more eternal can take root.

    But what if what fell wasn’t your schedule, your plans, or your sense of direction?

    • What if it was your mother?
    • Your spouse?
    • Your child?
    • Your only friend?
    • Your anchor in this world?

    What if the shaking took your person?

    Grief can already feel like spiritual whiplash. And the thought that God allowed it—that He stood by while it happened—can feel less like mercy and more like cruelty.

    And if someone dared to tell you, “It’s all part of a bigger plan,” you might want to walk away from that kind of God altogether.

    You wouldn’t be wrong to feel that way.

    Because when you lose someone you love—especially in a season when you were already barely holding it together—it doesn’t feel redemptive.

    It feels like betrayal.

    Like abandonment.

    Like being dropped while you were already drowning.

    “I don’t care about spiritual shaking,” one reader said. “I just want my dad back. He was the only one who understood me.”

    And still—this much we know:

    “When Jesus saw her weeping… He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled… Jesus wept.” — John 11:33–35

    He knew resurrection was coming. And He still wept.

    He didn’t offer explanations. He didn’t say, “This had to happen.”

    He stood beside Mary in her grief. He felt the injustice. And He cried.

    Maybe that’s what He’s doing with you now.

    Not fixing it. Not skipping it. Just sitting in the silence—with you.

    Maybe He didn’t cause the loss. Maybe He didn’t will the death. But He knew it would come.

    And instead of rushing you toward resolution, He’s walking through this part with you—at your pace, in your pain.

    Maybe the shaking didn’t take your anchor so you’d become stronger.

    Maybe it took your anchor… so He could be the one to hold you through the storm.

    “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

    You don’t have to make sense of this. Not now.

    You don’t have to move on.

    But maybe—just for today—you let yourself be held.

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    🏗️ Rebuilding in the Rubble

    You may not be rebuilding the same life. But you’re not building alone.

    By now, you may feel like your world has been stripped down to studs. What once defined you—your roles, your plans, your relationships—may be gone or unrecognizable. And the person you were before this season? She might feel just as lost.

    But if you’re still breathing, still asking questions, still reading this—That means something remains. And that something can become the foundation for a different kind of future.

    The Healing Will Look Nothing Like the Old Life

    You’re not going back to “normal.” There is no going back. But there may be something better ahead—not because it erases your grief, but because it honors it.

    “You don’t move on. You move with it. The grief walks beside you. But so does grace.”

    This isn’t toxic positivity. This is sacred rebuilding.

    “Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines… yet I will rejoice in the Lord.” — Habakkuk 3:17–18

    What Rebuilding Might Look Like

    • You wake up one morning and don’t feel dread.
    • You go for a walk and notice the trees again.
    • You remember something about your loved one—and smile instead of cry.
    • You say no to something you used to say yes to—because now you know your limits.
    • You start making plans—not because you’re fully healed, but because you’re still here.

    You’re not starting from scratch—you’re starting from sacred debris.

    “They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated.” — Isaiah 61:4

    Biblical Anchors for What Feels Unstable

    • When finances are uncertain: “The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.” — Psalm 23:1
    • When your identity feels lost: “You are mine. I have called you by name.” — Isaiah 43:1
    • When you are tired and stretched thin: “Come to me… and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28
    • When the future feels terrifying: “Do not fear, for I am with you.” — Isaiah 41:10
    • When you feel deeply alone: “Even if my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.” — Psalm 27:10

    What Remains Is Still Alive. And That Means Something.

    Maybe you don’t feel strong. Maybe you feel buried.

    But seeds aren’t lost when they’re in the dark. They’re preparing to break open. Preparing to rise.

    Even if no one sees it—especially when no one sees it—something in you is still here. Breathing. Noticing. Reaching.

    That’s not nothing. That’s the beginning of strength.

    You don’t have to bloom today. You don’t have to fix everything by tomorrow. But if you’re still breathing, there’s more to come.

    The ones who rise slowly often rise strongest. Not because they pushed through—but because they grew through. Deep. Quiet. Fierce.

    You may feel buried. But maybe… you’re rooted.

    And that is not the end of the story.

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    🌱 A Final Blessing

    Maybe this hasn’t answered every question.

    Maybe it didn’t fix what still feels broken.

    But if you’ve made it this far, it’s because something in you is still reaching for light.

    Maybe it’s not fire. Maybe it’s not fierce.

    But it’s alive. And that matters.

    There’s a kind of strength that doesn’t shout. It roots. Deep and unseen. Quiet and sure.

    And when it finally rises, it doesn’t just survive. It shelters others, too.

    So even if your grief still aches… even if your future feels dim… even if today is more silence than clarity—

    May you carry forward something real.

    Not because it’s all okay.

    But because something in you still is.

    So here’s to what remains.

    To what is still alive in you, however quiet.

    To the sacred rebuilding happening in silence.

    And to the person you are becoming—braver, deeper, more whole than ever before.

    A Blessing for the Journey

    May your grief give way to gentleness.

    May your questions stretch into something sacred.

    May you find strength not in perfection, but in quiet resilience.

    May you carry forward what mattered most—not by force, but by becoming.

    And as your roots grow deep in this broken soil,

    May something bloom in you that honors the life you lost,

    And the legacy you’re still living.

    Whatever your path, whatever your pace,

    May you know: you are not alone.

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    💬 Share What Resonated With You

    If something in this article stirred something in you—a phrase, a truth, a quiet strength—would you be willing to share it below?

    Scroll down and leave a comment. Let’s make this more than a page. Let’s make it a place to feel seen.

    📚 References

    • Doka, K. J. (2002). Disenfranchised Grief: Recognizing Hidden Sorrow. Lexington Books.
    • van der Kolk, B. (2014). The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. Viking.
    • American Psychological Association. (2023). Stress in America™ Report. View Report
    • Maslach, C., & Leiter, M. P. (2016). Understanding the burnout experience. World Psychiatry, 15(2), 103–111.
    • Pratt, M. G., Rockmann, K. W., & Kaufmann, J. B. (2006). Constructing professional identity. Academy of Management Journal, 49(2), 235–262.
    • Huang, C. (2017). Time on social networks and psychological well-being. Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking, 20(6), 346–354.
    • Vallotton, K. (2020). Spiritual Intelligence. Chosen Books.
    • Vawser, L. (2021–2024). Prophetic Words. www.lanavawser.com
    • Genesis 37–50 – The story of Joseph and divine repositioning.
    • Daniel 1–2 – Influence through faithfulness in exile.
    • Isaiah 45:3 – “Treasures of darkness and hidden riches.”
    • 1 Samuel 16:11–13 – David’s anointing from hiddenness.
    • Neimeyer, R. A. (2001). Meaning Reconstruction & the Experience of Loss.
    • Park, C. L. (2010). Meaning-making and adjustment to life stress. Psychological Bulletin.

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  • What to Do After a Sudden Death in the Family: A Grounded, Gentle Guide for the First 5 Days

    What to Do After a Sudden Death in the Family: A Grounded, Gentle Guide for the First 5 Days

    “I can’t think straight. I’m not in the same state. I don’t know what to do. Help!”


    The Moment That Shatters Everything

    The phone rang.
    The words hit like a punch:

    “I’m so sorry… they’re gone.”

    You freeze.
    You stare at nothing.
    You forget where your shoes are. You walk into a room and forget why.

    Your hands are shaking, but your heart hasn’t caught up yet.

    This is trauma. This is grief in motion. You’re in the foggy aftermath of the unthinkable.
    And even though it feels like the world is spinning around you, you don’t have to figure this out alone.

    This guide was created for you — the person who just heard, “They died.”
    Maybe you’re across the country. Maybe you’re holding a crying child. Maybe you can’t cry at all.

    You are not doing this wrong.

    Let’s walk forward. Gently. Together. 🕊️


    Crisis Grounding First

    Pause. Breathe. Sit Down.

    Place your hand on your chest.
    Inhale for 4 seconds. Hold. Exhale for 6.
    Now again. One more time.

    You don’t need to do everything right now.
    This guide will walk you step by step.


    Case Study #1: Anna’s Story (Loss from Afar)

    Anna was mid-flight when her brother texted:

    “Mom’s gone. It was a heart attack. Paramedics tried. I’m so sorry.”

    “I was stuck in Dallas. I didn’t know where to go. I walked around the airport for 40 minutes before I realized I was just walking in circles.”

    She called her mom’s best friend. Cried in an airport chapel. Texted work:

    “Emergency. Death in the family.”

    A stranger helped her rebook her flight.

    “I had no plan. But the checklist below gave me a rhythm. I just did the next thing. And then the next.”


    What to Do When Someone Dies Suddenly: The First 5 Days

    🗓️ Day 1 – Shock + Survival

    If you’re not there:

    • Call the hospital, coroner, or hospice to confirm the death
    • Ask what’s happening with the body (transfer, autopsy, etc.)
    • If elsewhere, authorities will begin protocols (911, coroner)

    Travel if needed:

    • Ask a friend to help you book
    • Bring ID, clothes, a notebook, phone charger
    • Don’t overthink packing

    Notify your workplace:

    “There’s been a sudden death in my immediate family. I’m traveling and unavailable. I’ll update as I can.”


    🗓️ Day 2 – Logistics Begin

    Make the following calls:

    • A funeral home (many will pick up the body)
    • Close family/friends
    • A support person to help with meals, rides, or child care

    Locate essential documents:

    • ID (yours and theirs)
    • Insurance, will, power of attorney
    • Medical paperwork

    👉 Don’t forget to rest. Cry. Eat something small. Write things down... thoughts, what you’ve done, anything.


    🗓️ Day 3 – Decisions + Pressure

    This is often when pressure begins: extended family asking questions, funeral planning, etc.
    You can go at your own pace.

    You may need to:

    • Order death certificates (request 10–15 copies)
    • Begin funeral or memorial planning
    • Notify Social Security (1-800-772-1213)
    • Cancel medications, hospice, or in-home care services

    🗓️ Day 4 – The Shock Begins to Fade

    The calls slow. Reality sets in.
    You may feel guilt, anger, emptiness, exhaustion… even moments of relief.
    All of this is normal.

    Consider:

    • Asking others to handle communication or errands
    • Creating a memory board or private journal
    • Letting yourself feel whatever comes up

    🗓️ Day 5 – A New Grief Rhythm Begins

    Today might be the day you:

    • Choose an obituary photo
    • Return to your home
    • Sit in silence for the first time
    • Wonder if the worst is behind you or ahead

    Whatever today looks like—you’re doing better than you think.


    Case Study #2: Jason’s Story (With Children)

    Jason’s wife passed from a sudden embolism. His kids were 5 and 8.

    “I had to tell them. And I didn’t know how. I googled it at 3am and still couldn’t do it.”

    Eventually, he said:

    “Mommy’s body stopped working. The doctors tried very hard, but they couldn’t help. She died, which means she can’t come back. We are going to miss her very much.”

    He asked a neighbor to watch the kids for a few hours while he made arrangements.

    “I needed ten minutes alone to fall apart. And then ten more to call the funeral home.”


    What Grief Looks Like in Crisis

    • Forgetting appointments, names, or entire conversations
    • Laughing one moment, sobbing the next
    • Not feeling anything at all
    • Needing silence—or needing to talk nonstop
    • Feeling like time isn’t real

    You are not broken.
    Grief lives in your body as much as your heart. This is biology, not failure.


    What NOT to Do (And That’s Okay)

    🚫 Don’t rush to clean their home
    🚫 Don’t pressure yourself to answer every text
    🚫 Don’t feel guilty if you laugh
    🚫 Don’t try to carry everything alone


    Gentle Words You Can Use

    To a coworker:

    “Thanks for checking in. I’m not ready to talk, but I appreciate your message.”

    To extended family:

    “I’m still processing. I’ll share details when I’m able.”

    To a child:

    “We can talk about this again later, or tomorrow, or as many times as you need. I’m here.”


    Need Cultural or Spiritual Guidance?

    Not sure what rituals or practices are expected in your tradition?
    We’ve created a special space for that. Visit:
    👉 Culture & Spirituality


    Affirmations for the Fog

    🫶 I am not broken
    🫶 I don’t have to rush
    🫶 I can ask for help
    🫶 I am allowed to grieve
    🫶 I am doing enough


    Your Voice Matters

    Have you been through sudden loss?
    What helped you get through those first few days?
    What do you wish someone had told you?

    💬 Please share your thoughts or experiences in the comments.
    Your story could bring hope to someone who feels lost right now.


    Sources:

  • Understanding The First Waves Of Grief: Navigating The Initial Emotional Storms

    Grief is unique to each individual, but the initial waves often leave people feeling overwhelmed, confused, and emotionally raw. Author Anne Lamott beautifully summarizes early grief: “You will lose someone you can’t live without, and your heart will be badly broken. But eventually, you will find your feet again” (Lamott, 2013). While grief is a universal experience, its personal nuances can feel isolating and perplexing. Gaining clarity about these early responses is crucial to effectively coping with grief and fostering healing after loss.


    Recognizing the Early Emotional Responses

    Initially, grief can arrive abruptly, causing a whirlwind of unexpected emotions. Many people report feelings of profound sadness, disbelief, anger, anxiety, guilt, or even numbness. It’s common to oscillate between emotions unpredictably, making it challenging to anticipate or manage emotional responses (Stroebe & Schut, 2010). Such unpredictability can heighten distress, especially if external pressures suggest a “right way” to grieve.

    Dr. Alan Wolfelt, a clinical psychologist specializing in grief counseling, notes that early grief often resembles emotional shock, temporarily destabilizing one’s perception of reality. Wolfelt reassures that experiencing these intense emotions is not only normal but vital to the grieving process (Wolfelt, 2016).


    Dispelling Common Grief Myths

    Misconceptions about grief can compound emotional distress. Common myths include beliefs that grief gradually and predictably diminishes over time or that emotional strength equates to suppressing feelings. Research suggests, however, that emotional suppression or attempts to hasten the grieving process can lead to prolonged grief and emotional complications (Neimeyer & Sands, 2011).

    Grief should instead be viewed as a natural process, where permitting oneself the freedom to authentically experience pain and sadness leads to deeper emotional healing. Effective grief support emphasizes honesty in emotional expression, whether through conversation, tears, or creative pursuits.


    Research Insight: Emotional Oscillation

    The Dual Process Model, developed by Stroebe and Schut (2010), provides essential insight into how people naturally handle grief. This model describes how individuals oscillate between directly addressing their loss (loss-oriented coping) and engaging in practical tasks or distractions (restoration-oriented coping). Both coping mechanisms are equally valuable and necessary during the early stages of grief. Shifting back and forth between deep emotional experiences and everyday tasks is normal and beneficial.

    Therapist Megan Devine reinforces this understanding: “Grief is not linear, nor does it follow clear stages. Allowing yourself to experience fluctuating emotional states without judgment or pressure significantly contributes to long-term healing” (Devine, 2017).


    Coping Strategies for Navigating Early Grief

    Journaling Your Journey

    Expressive writing is a widely endorsed therapeutic tool for processing grief. Journaling allows for the safe exploration and release of complicated emotions, fostering greater emotional clarity. You might start journaling with prompts such as:

    • Right now, I am feeling…
    • One of my favorite memories with my loved one is…
    • Something left unsaid that I wish I could communicate is…

    Grounding Breathing Technique

    Grounding exercises help manage anxiety and overwhelming emotions. Here’s a simple breathing exercise to try:

    1. Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
    2. Inhale slowly for a count of four.
    3. Hold your breath for four counts.
    4. Exhale gently over six counts.
    5. Repeat several times until you feel calmer and more centered.

    Recommended Reading for Early Grief Support

    • “It’s OK That You’re Not OK: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn’t Understand” by Megan Devine: This insightful book challenges traditional notions about grief, validating complex emotions and advocating for authentic expression in the grieving process.
    • “Healing After Loss: Daily Meditations for Working Through Grief” by Martha Whitmore Hickman: This comforting collection of daily meditations offers brief reflections that gently support you through each step of your grief journey.

    Solviah specifically highlights these two books because they emphasize compassionate understanding, emotional authenticity, and practical strategies aligned with our mission. However, numerous other impactful resources exist that might resonate differently based on individual preferences and needs.


    Finding Strength in Community

    Building connections with others who share similar grief experiences can significantly ease feelings of isolation. While grief is inherently personal, engaging with supportive communities offers emotional validation and understanding that many grievers find profoundly healing. Support groups, online forums, professional counseling, or simply speaking openly with friends and family can provide powerful comfort, practical coping strategies, and meaningful companionship. These relationships often transform grief from a solitary burden into a shared experience of mutual strength, resilience, and ongoing support.

    Additionally, community involvement offers opportunities to honor your loved one’s memory through collective activities or shared rituals, creating meaningful connections that extend beyond immediate grief.


    Actionable Takeaway

    Commit to journaling your emotional experiences daily for one week. Allow yourself to observe emotional patterns without self-criticism. Combining journaling with grounding exercises or short readings from grief-focused literature can further enhance emotional understanding and provide steady guidance during the unpredictable early stages of grief.

    Ultimately, grief is a profoundly personal journey without predetermined timelines or rules. Understanding your emotional reactions and employing empathetic, evidence-based strategies can help you gradually move toward peace and healing.

    For additional support and further exploration, browse our extensive collection of articles and resources dedicated to grief support and healing after loss.


    References

    Devine, M. (2017). It’s OK That You’re Not OK: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn’t Understand. Sounds True.

    Lamott, A. (2013). Stitches: A Handbook on Meaning, Hope, and Repair. Riverhead Books.

    Neimeyer, R. A., & Sands, D. C. (2011). Meaning reconstruction in bereavement: From principles to practice. In R. A. Neimeyer, D. L. Harris, H. R. Winokuer, & G. F. Thornton (Eds.), Grief and Bereavement in Contemporary Society: Bridging Research and Practice (pp. 9-22). Routledge.

    Stroebe, M., & Schut, H. (2010). The dual process model of coping with bereavement: A decade on. OMEGA – Journal of Death and Dying, 61(4), 273–289. https://doi.org/10.2190/OM.61.4.b

    Wolfelt, A. D. (2016). Understanding Your Grief: Ten Essential Touchstones for Finding Hope and Healing Your Heart. Companion Press.

  • What To Do In The First 24 Hours After A Death

    When someone we love passes away, the immediate moments and hours following their death can feel overwhelming and disorienting. Understanding what to do when someone dies and navigating the first steps after death can provide a sense of calm and direction during this emotional and stressful time. The following guide serves as a compassionate death checklist, helping families and loved ones address necessary tasks thoughtfully and systematically.


    1. Confirming the Death and Notifying Authorities

    The initial step after someone has passed is to confirm the death and involve appropriate authorities or medical professionals. If the death occurs in a hospital, hospice, or long-term care facility, medical personnel typically handle this step, providing formal documentation such as a death certificate (American Medical Association [AMA], 2020).

    However, if the death occurs at home or unexpectedly elsewhere, immediately call emergency services (911). Calling 911 is essential in any unexpected or sudden death situation. If the individual was under hospice care or had a known terminal illness, contacting their healthcare provider or hospice nurse is appropriate, as they are already familiar with the patient’s health condition and can guide you through the next steps.

    When authorities arrive, they will confirm the death and guide you regarding the next steps, including whether further investigation or an autopsy is required. Be prepared to answer basic questions about the deceased’s medical history and the circumstances surrounding their passing.


    2. Contacting a Funeral Director

    Selecting and contacting a funeral director early can provide significant emotional and logistical relief. Funeral directors offer invaluable support, assisting families with immediate arrangements such as transporting the deceased to a funeral home, planning for a viewing or service, and ensuring compliance with state and local regulations (National Funeral Directors Association [NFDA], 2023).

    Consider reaching out to funeral directors recommended by trusted sources or those previously chosen by the deceased as part of pre-planning arrangements. To determine if the deceased made pre-arrangements, look through their personal files, legal documents, estate paperwork, or consult with their attorney, executor, or immediate family members who may have this information.

    At this stage, it isn’t necessary to finalize funeral details, but connecting early with a funeral director helps guide subsequent decisions and alleviates unnecessary burdens during grief.


    3. Notifying Immediate Family and Close Friends

    Informing immediate family and close friends promptly allows loved ones to support each other and make necessary arrangements. While making these notifications, it’s advisable to enlist help from a trusted family member or friend to share the emotional weight of this task.

    Communicate sensitively and clearly, sharing essential information such as the date and circumstances of death and initial arrangements. Establishing a small phone tree or appointing someone to manage further communications can help maintain clarity and ensure no important contact is overlooked.


    4. Securing Important Documents

    Gathering and securing key documents is crucial for addressing immediate practical matters and preparing for upcoming responsibilities. Documents to locate include:

    • Identification documents (driver’s license, passport)
    • Social Security card
    • Will and estate planning documents
    • Insurance policies (life insurance, health insurance)
    • Financial statements (bank accounts, retirement accounts)
    • Marriage certificates, birth certificates, military records

    If you’re uncertain where the deceased stored important documents, begin by checking secure locations within their home, like a safe, file cabinet, home office desk, or lockbox. You can also speak with close family members, a lawyer, or financial advisors who may know the whereabouts of these documents.

    Keep located documents in a safe, accessible place, as you will frequently need them in the coming days and weeks for estate management and funeral planning (Consumer Financial Protection Bureau [CFPB], 2022).


    5. Caring for Pets and Securing Property

    If the deceased had pets or lived alone, it’s important to quickly arrange care for animals and secure their residence. Ensure pets have temporary caretakers, and verify the home is locked, safe, and secured against potential intrusions or emergencies.

    Delegate this responsibility to trusted friends, family members, or neighbors, if possible, to ease your immediate burden.


    6. Self-care and Emotional Support

    The first 24 hours after losing someone are emotionally exhausting and stressful. Acknowledging and attending to your emotional and physical needs is vital. Ensure you take breaks, stay hydrated, and eat regularly. Seek emotional support from friends, family, or professional counselors, allowing yourself space to express your grief openly.

    Connecting with grief support organizations, either online or locally, can offer immediate reassurance and guidance from professionals and individuals who have experienced similar losses.


    7. Informing the Deceased’s Employer and Social Security Administration

    Informing the deceased’s employer and the Social Security Administration within the first few days is necessary to halt payments, adjust benefits, and initiate possible survivor benefits. The funeral director often helps with notifying Social Security, but the employer should be informed directly to address payroll, benefits, or insurance matters.

    Contact the employer’s Human Resources department and be prepared to provide essential details, such as the deceased’s employee ID number and a copy of the death certificate (Social Security Administration, 2023).


    Conclusion

    The hours immediately following a death are uniquely challenging. While emotions run high, having a clear and compassionate checklist helps families navigate these difficult tasks more comfortably. Remember, you do not have to manage everything alone—seek professional assistance from funeral directors, healthcare providers, and grief support services to help guide you through these initial crucial steps.


    References

    American Medical Association. (2020). Medical examiner and coroner handbook. Retrieved from https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/ethics/medical-examiner-coroner-handbook

    Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. (2022). Managing someone’s money after death. Retrieved from https://www.consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/managing-someone-elses-money/after-death

    National Funeral Directors Association. (2023). Planning a funeral: Step-by-step guide. Retrieved from https://nfda.org/planning-a-funeral

    Social Security Administration. (2023). Survivors benefits. Retrieved from https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/survivors/