It is important to take care of yourself during this period of bereavement by maintaining a proper diet, exercise and rest. Taking care of your body can help heal the rest of you, even if you do not feel inclined to do so. Emotional symptoms include memory gaps, distraction or preoccupation, irritability, depression, euphoria, wailing rages and passive resignation. Nonetheless, it is important not to judge yourself too harshly as you experience conflicting and overwhelming emotions. Like grief itself, people's coping strategies vary.
Some people cope best through quiet reflection, others seek exercise or other distractions.
It is vital to obtain support in order to regain some sense of control and to work through your feelings. A trained counselor, support group, or trusted friend can help you sort through feelings such as anxiety, loss, anger, guilt, and sadness. If depression or anxiety persist, a doctor or psychiatrist may prescribe antidepressant drugs to help alleviate feelings of hopelessness. Conversely, many people express anger or outrage at God. If you are a person of faith, you may question your faith in God, in yourself, in others or in life.