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When that happens it can be absolutely devastating.
Losing a pet can be devastating.
For some people the death of a pet can feel even harder than losing a human loved one.
You love them and they love youits that simple.
Very few human relationships provide this level of trust and devotion.
Moreover, having a pet can benefit your overall mental health and well-being.
According to theNational Institutes of Health, animals can boost your mood and increase feelings of social support.
It follows you, sits with you, and mirrors you.
It becomes a very symbiotic relationship.
So what do we do when theyre not there to greet us at the door anymore?
Here are five tips to help you move through your grief.
Some folks dont want a constant reminder while others find it comforting.
Grief is a complicated process.
You might wake up one day feeling solid, but by lunch youre crying again.
These waves of emotions are par for the course; youve experienced something terrible and feeling normal takes time.
A2019 studyexamined the grief timeline in 82 people who lost a pet.
At first, the silence in your home may be deafening, perThe American Veterinary Medical Association.
Be patient with yourself and know that moving through grief takes time.
You wont be able to shift your mindset or your mood overnight.
Since pet grief isnt really discussed, a lot of people arent entirely sure how to be supportive.
Its a very big loss and people dont always know what to do, Dr. Dardashti says.
So ask them for what you need.
This will look different for everyone.
For some people, grief makes them lose sight of their basic needs.
texts throughout the week.
Here are a few ideas to consider:
Humans dont grieve well alone, Dr. Skritskaya says.
But there are other people who have experienced a profound loss like that.
If you dont have any friends or family who understand what youre going through, thats okay.
There are lots of pet-loss support groups you’re able to join online or in real life.
Small joys or small pleasures can help us tolerate the pain, Dr. Skritskaya says.
So make a run at take time to do the things you love.
Go for a walk.
Get your nails done.
Grab a coffee with a friend.
Even if it only makes you feel better for a little while, its a great start.
