Grieving Is Already Hard…Grieving Due to Overdose Takes On a Whole New Dimension

Grieving is difficult, no matter the cause. The pain that stems from loss can be overwhelming and profound. When grieving due to loss from an overdose, however, it becomes an even more complex and difficult process to work through. People are often hesitant to acknowledge an  overdose, much less speak about it openly, making healing more challenging. Feelings of guilt, regret and resentment can also make it more difficult to accept the loss, to forgive yourself and your loved one, and to move forward.

For anyone in our community grieving due to overdose, the team at Oneida Behavioral Health (OBH) wants you to know that YOU ARE NOT ALONE. In our community, we are family and we’re here to help. And there are others who have experienced similar loss. Here are some ideas that can help you or a loved one after such a loss:

• Turn to the people that love you and try not to push them away. These are the people that you can share your feelings and thoughts with. Don’t be afraid to be honest with them. Not acknowledging a cause of death or hiding it can cause even more emotional turmoil.
• Do not use alcohol or drugs to numb your feelings. Turning to substances to numb your feelings will backfire.
• No matter what, take care of yourself. Whether it’s going for a walk or making time to do something you really enjoy, make time for yourself.
• Give yourself plenty of time to heal and allow yourself to feel your emotions without judgement. It’s ok to feel angry, hurt, sad and everything in between.
• Seek support from a counselor or other families who have experienced a similar loss. Connecting with people who can understand what you’re experiencing can offer new insights and make a world of difference.

Whether your grief is new, or you’ve been living with if for an extended period of time, please consider reaching out to our team at Oneida Behavioral Health, we are here to help. You can reach us at 920.490.3790.

And please consider joining us on August 29 for our day-long, annual Kunhi-Yo healing event. Learn more about Kunhi-Yo and register by clicking here. For tips, events, resources and more, follow the Oneida Comprehensive Health Division Facebook page.