Understanding and Easing Grief: Insights from Dr. Daniel and Tana Amen
One: you want to start healing as soon as possible. Step three: fix sleep first, so important. If you don't sleep right, you won't grieve right.
Grief is a universal experience, yet it manifests uniquely in each of us. In this heartfelt episode of The Brain Warrior's Way Podcast, Dr. Daniel Amen and Tana Amen dive deep into the complexities of grief, offering practical advice and compassionate insights. Drawing from their PBS special 'Overcoming Anxiety, Depression, Trauma & Grief', they shed light on the 'dragons' of the past that stir our emotional turmoil, particularly during challenging times like the pandemic.
One dragon that has reared its head prominently is the Grief and Loss Dragon. Dr. Amen identifies three primary types of grief: acute grief, anticipatory grief, and complicated grief. He breaks down what triggers each type, how they manifest in our lives, and most importantly, how we can ease the pain they cause.
Whether it's the immediate shock of losing a loved one or the prolonged agony of anticipated loss, the Amens provide strategies to help listeners navigate these turbulent emotions. The episode emphasizes the importance of starting the healing process early and prioritizing sleep as a foundational step. Dr. Amen shares brain-healthy techniques such as journaling about your feelings, replacing negative thoughts with positive memories, and a four-step process to break free from overwhelming emotions.
The hosts also discuss why attachment plays a crucial role in our grief responses and how losing a sense of purpose can lead to deeper emotional struggles. This episode is not just for those currently grieving but also for anyone supporting someone through their loss. The Amens' blend of professional expertise and personal anecdotes makes their advice relatable and actionable.
If you're looking for compassionate guidance on how to cope with grief and reclaim your mental well-being, this episode is a must-listen.