Instrumental Grief
Grief is a difficult process that affects everyone differently. For some individuals, grief manifests in an instrumental way. As an instrumental griever, you may find that you are more focused on practical tasks and problem-solving when dealing with your grief. While this approach can be helpful in maintaining a sense of control, it is important to remember that emotional processing and expression are also important components of healing.
Here are some tips for instrumental grievers to help them navigate their grief and find healing:
Set achievable goals: As an instrumental griever, you may find that setting goals and accomplishing tasks can help you feel more in control during a difficult time. It is important to set achievable goals that can help you maintain a sense of accomplishment and purpose. For example, you might set a goal to organize your loved one's belongings or plan a memorial service.
Seek practical support: Instrumental grievers may benefit from seeking out practical support to help them with tasks and responsibilities. This can include reaching out to friends and family for assistance or hiring a professional to help with tasks like estate planning or financial management.
Take breaks: While focusing on practical tasks can be helpful, it is important to also take breaks and allow yourself time to process your emotions. This can include engaging in self-care practices like exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
Find meaning in your loss: As an instrumental griever, it may be helpful to find meaning in your loss through practical actions. This can include setting up a memorial fund or volunteering for a cause that was important to your loved one.
It is important to remember that grief is a highly individualized experience, and what works for one person may not work for another. If you are struggling with your grief, it may be helpful to seek out professional support from a therapist or counselor who can help you navigate your emotions and find healing.
In conclusion, instrumental grievers may find that focusing on practical tasks can help them maintain a sense of control during a difficult time. However, it is important to also incorporate emotional processing and expression into the healing process. By setting achievable goals, seeking practical support, taking breaks, and finding meaning in your loss, instrumental grievers can find a healing process that works for them.
References:
Parkes, C. M., & Prigerson, H. G. (2010). Bereavement: studies of grief in adult life. Routledge.