18 Dec Journal Prompts for Grief

Journal Prompts for Grief

Grief can feel incredibly isolating–we often suffer alone, or in private. In his book, Lessons of loss: A Guide to Coping, Dr. Robert Niemeyer explains, “When losses are traumatic, they may be difficult to discuss or even disclose to another. And yet the psychological and physical burden of harboring painful memories without the release of sharing can prove far more destructive in the long run.” Studies show that journaling offers an opportunity for us to unload this psychological burden of grief that Dr. Niemeyer refers to. By journaling, we can record and process all of our most intimate feelings, without fearing the reactions or judgments of others. We can also begin to really hear and honor our own pain.

Here are a few prompts to get you started if grief journaling sounds helpful to you.

1. The hardest time of the day is…
2. I really miss…
3. Some of my favorite memories are…
4. What I’m feeling right now is…
5. My support system includes…
6. I find it helpful when…
7. I wish my friends would say…
8. I wish I could tell my loved one…
9. I can take care of myself by…
10. I feel loved when…

Recording these thoughts and feelings can help ease some of the intensity of the pain, but it won’t banish it entirely. If you’re feeling like you need additional help, consider scheduling an appointment with a counselor, reaching out to a trusted loved one, or seeking a local support group.