A Publication of Lighthouse Consulting Services

We face loss frequently in our lives whether it is a death in the family, loss of a friend, losing a job or change in life cycle like retiring or moving out on one’s own. Loss comes in many shapes and forms, and in a way, change is a loss. When we get a new job or have a child or get married, we lose a familiar way of life. Even when the change is good and welcomed, it creates feelings of anxiety for we face something different, something unknown. Here are some ideas of how to handle things when change and loss come into our lives.

Take time to say good-bye

“ Loss comes in many shapes and forms, and in a way, change is a loss. Even when the change is good and welcomed, it creates feelings of anxiety for we face something different, something unknown.”
Take some time and in your own way, say goodbye to the familiar way of life, to the person or object that has left your life. It’s important to deal with the feelings and not to dismiss or judge these feelings as silly, stupid or insignificant. It’s important to give yourself space to deal with the loss and change, to mourn and grieve, and to acknowledge feelings of pain, hurt, fear, anger, sorrow, ... in your own time.


Reach out to others

Support is strongly needed during periods of loss and change. Those who reach out to others find they can better handle difficult situations. They feel heard and cared about, which strengthens and nurtures them. Reaching out to family, friends, self-help or support groups, counselors or clergy can provide the warmth and support that one needs during these difficult times.
 

 








 

 

Taking care of yourself

This is one of the most important ways to deal with loss. When dealing with difficult situations, be sure to take care of yourself. Eat well or have someone help you to eat by bringing in food to you or reminding you to eat. Take care of your body with warm baths or saunas; provide yourself with enough sleeping and resting times; and get enough exercise or hikes or even just walks around the block. Walking along the beach or on some nature trails can be very comforting and peaceful. Additionally, these walks can be helpful towards finding answers to the hard questions one finds within. Sometimes during painful or fearful times, we forget to attend to our needs or think of them as unimportant. It’s important to understand that feelings brought up by loss causes wear and tear on your body so you need to provide the nurturing your body needs.


Lighthouse Consulting Services 
3130 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 550, Santa Monica, CA 90403 
(310) 453-6556