A mesothelioma diagnosis can cause grief in patients, family, and friends. It can be especially difficult for surviving loved ones of those who die of mesothelioma. Losing a loved one to an aggressive cancer can be extremely difficult because someone may have been taken too soon. While mesothelioma can take a long time to develop, once it does, it can progress fast, thus leading to an early death.
After someone loses a loved one to mesothelioma, it can take time to overcome grief. Also, the grieving process may involve various feelings and behaviors. Below, we share some of the common grief responses to losing a loved one to mesothelioma and how to cope.
Common Grief Responses to Losing a Loved One to Mesothelioma
Everyone copes with loss in their own way. However, some things are common among many grievers. The following are some of the common grief responses to losing a loved one.
Emotions
After losing a loved one to mesothelioma, hurtful and negative feelings are bound to arise. The following are some of the emotions that can occur after someone loses a loved one to mesothelioma:
- Anger
- Guilt
- Shock
- Despair
- Numbness
- Denial
- Helplessness
- Anxiety
- Loneliness
- Sadness
Thoughts
After a loved one dies of mesothelioma, remaining loved ones may start experiencing uncontrollable thoughts. Some thoughts that could arise include the following:
- Confusion
- Hallucinations
- Disbelief
- Lack of focus
Behavior Changes
A person grieving the loss of a loved one may also develop behavior changes, including the following:
- Loss of interest in socializing
- Loss of interest in eating
- Low energy
- Problems sleeping
- The need to stay busy all the time
- Restlessness
Physical Responses
A grieving person may also suffer physically. Some of the physical responses to grief include:
- Physical numbness
- Dizziness
- Upset stomach
- Heaviness in the chest
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Nausea
How to Cope With Grief
The following are some tips for coping with grief after losing a dear one to mesothelioma;
Allow Acceptance
The first thing to do is to avoid pretending to be all right or suppressing emotions. Doing this can make the grieving process more difficult. It is essential to face one’s emotions.
Be Patient
A grieving person does not have to be okay in a specific period. One must take their time to grieve the loss of a loved one.
Let it Out
By talking to a therapist, for example, a person can find healthy ways of navigating their grief responses. A grieving person could also start journaling if they feel uncomfortable talking to someone.
Find a Mesothelioma Support Group
It is important to remember that support is available. For example, there are support groups for surviving loved ones. A mesothelioma support group can help grieving individuals find people that understand the grief they are going through.
Nationwide Mesothelioma Lawyers
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced nationwide mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment.