Taking Care of Yourself After Losing a Loved One

Losing someone you love is one of life’s most painful experiences. Grief can feel overwhelming, leaving you emotionally drained and physically exhausted. During this time, it’s easy to neglect your own well-being, but self-care is an essential part of the healing process.

At Bales Funeral Home and Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery & Funeral Center, we understand the deep sorrow that comes with loss, and we want to offer guidance on how you can take care of yourself during this difficult time. Understanding Grief and Its Impact Grief is a profoundly personal journey, and there is no right or wrong way to process it. Some people experience sadness, others feel numb, and some may even struggle with guilt or anger. Physically, grief can lead to fatigue, headaches, digestive issues, and weakened immunity. Emotionally, it can cause anxiety, depression, or a sense of detachment. Recognizing these effects is the first step in learning how to care for yourself.

Grief Support Group in Preble County If you’re seeking support during your grief journey, consider joining a Grief Support Group sponsored by Bales Funeral Home and Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery & Funeral Center. These sessions are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 5 PM and provide a safe, understanding space for those coping with the loss of a loved one.

The group is open to all ages and offers a mix of in-person and virtual options, so you can join in the way that feels most comfortable for you. Led by Kelly McCarty, a Holistic Health Practitioner and lifelong resident of Preble County with 24 years of experience working with seniors, the group combines her wealth of knowledge and compassion. Kelly’s approach focuses on understanding, encouragement, and practical suggestions to help participants navigate their grief while promoting better overall health. This valuable resource is free of charge and available to anyone in the community.

For more information, contact the Preble County Council on Aging at 937.456.4947 or 1.800.238.5146, or visit www.PrebleSeniorCenter.org.

Self-Care Tips During Grief In addition to seeking group support, there are several ways to practice self-care during this challenging time:

1. Allow Yourself to Feel Suppressing emotions can make healing harder. Allow yourself to grieve in your own way—whether it’s through crying, talking, or journaling.

2. Prioritize Rest and Sleep Establish a relaxing nighttime routine to help you rest. Sleep is essential for emotional and physical well-being.

3. Nourish Your Body Even if appetite changes occur, try to maintain a balanced diet to keep your energy levels stable.

4. Engage in Gentle Movement Physical activity, like a short walk or yoga, can improve mood and help reduce stress.

5. Find Comfort in Routine Create small daily rituals to bring stability to your life.

6. Honor Your Loved One Consider planting a tree, lighting a candle, or writing a letter to commemorate their life and keep their memory alive.

7. Seek Professional Help When Needed If grief feels overwhelming, reach out to a counselor or therapist for guidance and support. You Are Not Alone Grief is a journey, but it doesn’t have to be walked alone.

The Grief Support Group in Preble County and the compassionate staff at Bales Funeral Home and Preble Memory Gardens Cemetery & Funeral Center are here to help you every step of the way.Taking care of yourself is not selfish—it’s a necessary part of healing. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, take time to rest, and honor your loved one in your own way.

If you or someone you know needs additional support, contact us or join our next grief support meeting. We’re here to help.