Anticipatory grief is the feeling of grief you endure before an anticipated loss. This can happen whether you’re preparing for your own death or the anticipated loss of a loved one. These feelings can include physical symptoms like lack of sleep, stomach pain, crying, and much more. Anticipatory grief can also cause emotional distress and depression.

Think of mouring as the acts that we do surrounding a death or loss. The wake, visitation, funeral service and burial are all part of the mourning process. Grief, on the other hand, is an ongoing feeling and emotion we feel because of a loss. Grief affects everyone differently and has no set timeline.

While there are many feelings associated with grief, they can generally be grouped as:

• Denial
• Anger
• Bargaining
• Depression
• Acceptance

Each individual will go through the five stages of grief in their own time. How you process grief is entirely up to you. You should never feel rushed to go through these five stages.

Putting a timeline on grief is impossible. In fact, minimizing your grief to a particular timeline can have negative emotional consequences. If you feel like you’re moving through your grief too slowly, you’re likely to grow frustrated and angry. Do not rush your grief, because it will come and go like waves. Even in acceptance, we don’t truly get over the loss of a loved one, we just learn to live with that loss as part of our everyday life.

Grief support groups can provide valuable assistance as you work through your grief. Knowing that you are feeling the same things and going through the same trials as others can help you feel less alone in your grief. At Locke Funeral Services, our grief support group is focused on providing you with a safe space to understand your feelings of loss.

Some common symptoms of grief include sadness, guilt, anger, shock, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite. It is normal to experience a wide range of emotions during the grieving process.

It is not uncommon to experience feelings of guilt or regret after a loss. These feelings may be related to things you wish you had done differently or times when you were not able to be there for your loved one. It is important to remember that these feelings are normal and to be kind and gentle with yourself during this time.

It is possible to heal and move forward after a loss, although the grieving process may be ongoing. With time and support, many people are able to find a sense of peace and acceptance after a loss, even as they continue to carry the memory of their loved one with them.

Yes, grief can have physical effects on the body, including fatigue, headaches, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. It is important to take care of your physical health during this time by eating well, getting enough rest, and engaging in physical activity.

Taking care of yourself is an important part of the grieving process. This can include getting enough rest, eating well, engaging in physical activity, and practicing self-care activities like meditation or journaling. It is also important to seek support from friends, family, or a professional if needed.

The most important thing you can do to support someone who is grieving is to listen and be present. Offer your support and comfort, but also respect their need for space and privacy. You can also help with practical tasks like cooking, cleaning, or running errands.