GRIEF AND ANGER
I’ve been there. I’ve been so angry that it feels like the only natural place for the grief to go is “out”
We all know grief is not only a natural response to loss but how we deal with it is also a natural response. That being said, grief can manifest in a variety of ways. While we can debate about the 6 stages of grief, inevitably there are varying degrees of anger. This anger can be directed at oneself, others, or the situation causing the loss. It helps to explore how grief affects our anger, but let’s offer some tips for coping with this difficult emotion.
The Connection Between Grief and Anger
Grief and anger are both powerful emotions that left unchecked can be difficult to control. When we experience a loss, we may feel a range of emotions from sadness to shock, and disbelief. As we process our feelings, anger may emerge as a response to this loss we’re now facing. This anger can stem from feelings of injustice, frustration, or helplessness.
Anger can also be a way for us to cope with the pain of their loss. By directing their anger outward, they may feel a sense of control or empowerment. However, anger can also be a way of masking deeper emotions. Some people may find it easier to feel angry than to feel the pain of their loss. In this case, anger can be a defense mechanism, allowing them to distance themselves from their grief.
Tips for Coping with Anger During Grief
If you are experiencing anger as part of your grief, there are several things you can do to cope with this difficult emotion. Here are some tips:
Recognize and Acknowledge Your Anger
The first step in coping with anger during grief is to recognize and acknowledge it. Don't try to suppress or ignore your anger, since this can make it worse. Instead, allow yourself to feel angry and accept it as a natural part of the grieving process.
Find Healthy Ways to Express Your Anger
Once you have acknowledged your anger, find healthy ways to express it. This could include talking to a therapist or trusted friend, writing in a journal, or engaging in physical activity. Avoid directing your anger at others, as this can damage your relationships and make you feel worse in the long run.
Practice Self-Care
During times of grief, it's important to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, and engage in activities that bring you joy. Self-care can help reduce stress and provide a sense of comfort during difficult times.
Seek Professional Help
If your anger is becoming overwhelming or interfering with your daily life, consider seeking professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide you with strategies for coping with your anger and help you work through your grief in a healthy way.
Don’t beat yourself up if this happening to you at the moment. Grief is a complex emotion. It's important to recognize and acknowledge your anger as a natural part of the grieving process, but also find healthy ways to express it. By practicing self-care and seeking professional help if necessary, you can work through your grief and find a sense of peace.
I’ll say this many many, but we are truly all working through grief no matter how old we are
We grieve, we breathe, and in the end, we heal.