While coming to terms with the loss of a loved one is never easy, it can be more difficult in the case of wrongful death. Seeking justice on your loved one’s behalf can help, but the process can take time.
The American Psychological Association offers suggestions on how to grieve effectively. The tips are for coping with loss in general, but they can apply more specifically to your situation.
Accept your feelings
The wrongful death of a loved one can bring forth a wide range of powerful emotions. Remember that whatever you are feeling is normal and try to find appropriate ways to express your emotions. Ignoring your emotions is not healthy, but neither are some forms of expression, so try to find a positive outlet.
Celebrate your loved one’s life
Try to find ways to honor your loved one, especially during anniversaries that can be especially difficult times. Do something that has meaning and personal significance to your loved one’s memory, such as supporting a charity that was important to him or her.
Take care of your physical health
Keeping your body healthy helps you to bear your burden of grief more easily. This is not because it requires physical strength but because physical, emotional and mental health all affect one another so that when one increases or decreases, the others tend to follow.
Help take care of others
Sharing your grief with others who were close to the person who died helps to make it easier for everyone to bear. Talk to family members and friends about what they are feeling and inquire about their physical health as well.
Remember that grief does not follow a specific time frame. The healing process is different for everyone, so be gentle with yourself and do not impose arbitrary deadlines by which you expect to finish mourning your loss.