Being left by a loved one leaves behind its own trauma, a deep sadness that requires the person left behind to take several steps to cope with their trauma.

Ways to Overcome the Trauma of Losing a Loved One

The experience faced by Abdul Rahman Amir will undoubtedly leave its own trauma within his heart and mind. Being left by a beloved person forever is one of the most frightening things in the world, and going through the mourning period is incredibly challenging. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), Psychologist and Executive Director of the APA, Katherine C. Nordal, PhD, writes that there are several ways to cope with sadness and trauma after losing a loved one, namely:

1. Discussing the death of the loved one

Talking about the death of the person you love with friends or colleagues can help you understand what happened and remember your friend or family member. Avoiding discussions about the death of your loved one might lead to isolation and disrupt the healing process.

2. Acknowledging your feelings

You may experience various emotions ranging from sadness, anger, or even exhaustion. All these feelings are normal, and it's important to recognize when you feel this way. If you feel stuck or overwhelmed by these emotions, it might be a good idea to speak with a licensed psychologist or other mental health professional who can help you address your feelings and find ways to get back on track.

3. Take care of yourself and your family

Eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep can aid both your physical and emotional health. The grieving process can impact a person's body, so make sure you pay attention to everyone you love; providing care to your loved ones can help reduce sadness.

4. Spending time with others who share the loss

Spending time with loved ones of the deceased who are also experiencing the loss can help everyone cope. You can share stories or listen to the favorite music of your loved one; these small efforts can make a significant difference for some people. Helping others has an added benefit of making you feel better by remembering and celebrating the life of the person you loved.

5. Remembering the loss of the loved one

Marking the loss of a loved one can be a difficult time for friends and family, but it can also be a time to remember and honor them. You might gather donations for the deceased's favorite charity, pass on the family name to a baby, or plant a garden in their memory. Whatever you choose is up to you, as long as it allows you to honor that unique relationship in a way that feels right to you.