Is the grief of losing a patient overwhelming you?

No one is ever prepared to lose a patient. It is one of the most difficult things a healthcare provider has to go through. It is natural to feel a range of emotions and not know what to do or where to go for help. Stopping to process your emotions isn’t an option. You’re expected to move on to the next patient and not feel the sorrow of what just happened.

It’s crucial for your mental health to allow yourself to process your grief. Although there is no right or wrong way to cope with grief, there are some strategies that may help you cope.

1. Allow yourself to feel the full range of emotions. Grief can be an intense experience, and it is normal to feel a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, loneliness and helplessness. Allow yourself to feel all of these emotions and give yourself time to mourn your loss. When an intense emotion surfaces, place your hands on your heart and breathe. Continue to breathe until you feel the emotion subsided. If your emotions are still intense, place both hands on your lap and begin to tap. Keep tapping your hands on your legs until the emotions have subsided.

2. Seek out support from family and friends. Grief can be a very isolating experience, but it is important to have support from loved ones. Talk to them about your loss and how you are feeling. They can provide comfort and support during this difficult time.

3. Find a support group. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your grief, consider joining a support group. This can be a helpful way to connect with other people who are also grieving the loss of a patient. A lot of groups are meeting virtually, which makes it convenient to get the support you need. This saves time and the hassle of commuting.

4. Seek professional help. If you are having a hard time coping with your grief, consider talking to a coach or therapist. They can help you work through your emotions and deal with your grief. Many coaches and therapists provide virtual sessions that accommodate your demanding schedule. This helps you get the care you need when you need it.

5. Take care of yourself. Grief can take a toll on your physical and emotional health. Make sure to take care of yourself both mentally and physically. Find an activity that helps you relax and de-stress. This could be something as simple as taking a walk, listening to music, or meditating. These are things you can do daily for a few minutes. On your commute to work you can listen to calming music. When you have a short break at work, you can go for a quick walk. Before you go to sleep, you can listen to a meditation.

Whatever method works best for you, it is important to remember that you are not alone in your grief. There are others who understand what you are going through and will support you during this difficult time. Pushing your grief aside is like carrying a backpack filled with heavy rocks. That's why it’s vital for you to allow yourself to grieve and you’ll begin to feel a lot lighter.