Suicide leaves in its wake a host of family, friends, and others affected by tremendous and sudden loss. How can these survivors of tragedy move forward with their lives? The work of grieving is different for each individual. For some, it takes months; for others, years. The phases of grief are best thought of as fluid, rather than static and predictable.
When we fall in love, we usually gravitate toward someone who is like us in some ways but different in others. At first this attraction seems ideal, but within about 6-18 months of the relationship the differences will initiate conflict. It is important to normalize these differences and to accept each other, warts and all.
“People feel differently about issues around immigration. My job as a counselor is to be present and listen to my clients’ concerns, to help them make a safety plan for their family so that if something happens to them, their kids (who were born here) don’t end up in the system. At the same time, we’re working through their trauma.”
How do we navigate the emotionally-laden days ahead of us? A few recommendations for everyone on the emotional spectrum.