Take
care of your body. The body is the container of the mind which
is now feeling intense emotion. Nurturing it in the following
ways will ease your grieving process.
*Nutrition: eat healthy meals even if your appetite is reduced.
*Sleep: be sure to get at least 5-8 hours daily, no more, no less.
*Exercise: even walking will help your mood in this difficult
time.
Talk
to people who can empathize with your grief. Consistent interaction
and sharing with those you feel comfortable around will be most
beneficial.
Maintain
structure in your life by continuing to do the activities you
did before the loss, with the exception of those you did with
or for your pet. Do not allow this major disruption to snowball
into every aspect of your life. Structure will help your regain
your bearings.
Perform
a ritual when you feel the time is right. Some have funerals at
a pet cemetery or memorials with friends and family. Others may
create a small shrine for a brief time.
Allow
yourself to feel sadness and loss. Grief is a normal response
to a normal occurrence, yet each person goes through it differently.
If you feel as though you cannot recover, or it you have thoughts
of self-harm, contact a mental health professional immediately.
The
above was written by Dr. Matt Zimmerman, a licensed psychologist
practicing in Pembroke Pines, FL. He provides grief counseling and
facilitates a Pet Loss and Grieving Support Group at the Broward
County Humane Society.