Grief is a natural and inevitable part of life, and everyone experiences it at some point. However, the way we deal with grief can vary widely, and some people may find themselves struggling to cope during what is known as a “STUG” moment. STUG stands for “Sudden Temporary Upsurge of Grief,” and it refers to those moments when a wave of grief seems to hit you out of nowhere, catching you off guard and leaving you feeling overwhelmed.
If you are dealing with STUG moments of grief, it can be difficult to know what to do. However, there are several tips that you can follow to help you handle these moments more effectively and move through them with greater ease.
1. Allow yourself to feel your emotions.
One of the most important things you can do when experiencing a STUG moment of grief is to allow yourself to feel your emotions. It can be tempting to try to push your feelings aside or distract yourself, but this will only delay the inevitable and may make your grief more difficult to process over time. Instead, give yourself permission to feel whatever you are feeling, whether that is sadness, anger, or frustration. Acknowledge your emotions and sit with them for a while, allowing yourself to process them in a healthy way.
2. Practice self-care.
Taking care of yourself is always important, but it becomes even more crucial during times of grief. Make sure that you are getting enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and peace. This might mean going for a walk in nature, taking a relaxing bath, or spending time with loved ones who support and uplift you. Whatever self-care practices work for you, make sure that you prioritize them during STUG moments of grief.
3. Seek support from others.
No one should have to go through grief alone, and seeking support from others can be a crucial part of the healing process. Reach out to friends, family members, or a therapist who can offer a listening ear and support as you navigate your feelings. You may also want to consider joining a support group for those who have experienced similar losses or talking to a spiritual or religious leader who can offer guidance and comfort.
4. Find healthy ways to express your emotions.
Grief can be overwhelming, and finding healthy ways to express your emotions can be a helpful way to cope. This might mean writing in a journal, creating art or music, or participating in a physical activity like running or dancing. Whatever helps you to release your emotions in a healthy way, make sure to incorporate it into your routine.
5. Practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness is a powerful tool for coping with grief, as it allows you to be present in the moment and observe your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can help you to develop greater emotional resilience and cope with STUG moments of grief more effectively. This might mean meditating, practicing deep breathing exercises, or simply taking a few moments each day to pause and focus on your breath.
STUG moments of grief can be difficult to handle, but by practicing self-care, seeking support, and allowing yourself to feel your emotions, you can move through them with greater ease. Remember to be kind to yourself and take things one day at a time, knowing that healing is a process that takes time and patience. Learn more about “Why Does Grief Come in Waves? Unraveling the Complexities of Mourning” by visiting our blog page now!
If you are struggling to cope with STUGS, or any other component of grief, please reach out to our grief counselling expert. We are here to support you as you figure out how to reconnect with the world and yourself after a loss.