State of Mind Theme 2017: Loss

It’s State of Mind week and this year’s theme is that of loss.

It is natural that we grieve to varying degrees after any sort of loss, such as a job, relationship, physical injury either to ourselves or others, but most powerfully after the death of someone we love.

Losing someone brings on a range of emotions and it can take some time to get through. Some of these emotions include – feeling stunned, numb, disbelief, wanting the person to be back with you, getting angry or perhaps feeling guilty and experiencing intense emotional pain.

Some people feel uncomfortable talking about their feelings of loss, but it really is helpful to let out your emotions with people you know and trust, rather than bottling up your feelings.

It is difficult to know what to say or what to do to support someone experiencing a major loss and this sometimes results in people avoiding the person who has experienced loss.

Friends and relatives can help by being alongside the bereaved person – showing concern by listening, supporting and encouraging the person to let out their emotions and talk about their feelings.

Practical ways of showing support can be taking around flowers, a cake, cooking a meal, or offering to do the shopping. Just listening or saying you can’t find words will let the person know that you care.

And don’t forget the ten ways to look after your State of Mind are:

• Talk about your feelings
• Eat well
• Keep in touch
• Take a break
• Accept who are
• Keep active
• Drink sensibly
• Ask for help
• Do something you’re good at
• Care for others

Please visit the State of Mind marquee or speak to volunteers present at all Super League games this weekend.