Grief is a natural response to loss that can cause a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety. While the grieving process can be challenging at any time, there may be occasions when grief feels more intense than usual. This phenomenon is often referred to as “indigo grief” and can be caused by a variety of factors. In this article, we will explore what indigo grief is and why it can feel more intense than other types of grief.

What is Indigo Grief?

Indigo grief is a term used to describe a specific type of grief that feels more intense than typical grief. It is characterized by deep feelings of sadness, despair, and hopelessness that can be overwhelming and debilitating. Indigo grief can be triggered by any significant loss, including the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a job.

The term “indigo” refers to the deep, dark color that is associated with sadness and melancholy. Indigo grief is often described as a feeling of being stuck in a deep, dark hole with no way out. It can be challenging to navigate and can cause significant distress for those experiencing it.

Why Does Indigo Grief Feel More Intense?

There are several reasons why indigo grief can feel more intense than other types of grief. These reasons include:

1. The Nature of the Loss: The intensity of indigo grief can be influenced by the nature of the loss. For example, the death of a loved one can be a traumatic and unexpected event that can cause deep feelings of sadness and despair. The suddenness and finality of the loss can make it difficult to process and can lead to more intense grief.

2. Personal Factors: Personal factors, such as a person’s coping skills, support system, and past experiences with grief, can also influence the intensity of indigo grief. Those who have experienced multiple losses or who have a history of mental health issues may be more vulnerable to experiencing indigo grief.

3. The Timing of the Loss: The timing of a loss can also impact the intensity of indigo grief. For example, a loss that occurs during a stressful time or when a person is already experiencing significant life changes can increase the intensity of grief.

4. Unresolved Issues: Unresolved issues or unfinished business can also contribute to the intensity of indigo grief. This can include unresolved conflicts or issues with the person who has died or the circumstances surrounding the loss.

5. Cultural and Social Factors: Cultural and social factors, such as the stigmatization of grief or a lack of support from friends and family, can also contribute to the intensity of indigo grief. A lack of understanding or support can leave a person feeling isolated and alone, which can intensify feelings of grief and despair.

How to Cope with Indigo Grief

Coping with indigo grief can be a challenging and complex process. Here are some strategies that may help:

1. Seek Support: Seeking support from friends, family, or a mental health professional can be helpful when coping with indigo grief. Talking to someone who understands and can offer guidance and support can help alleviate feelings of isolation and despair.

2. Practice Self-Care: Engaging in self-care activities like exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep can help alleviate the symptoms of indigo grief. Taking care of oneself physically can also help improve mood and reduce feelings of hopelessness and despair.

3. Journaling: Journaling can be a helpful tool for processing emotions and expressing feelings of grief. Writing down thoughts and feelings can help release emotions and provide a sense of catharsis.

4. Engage in Creative Activities: Engaging in creative activities like painting, drawing, or playing music can help alleviate the symptoms of indigo grief.

5. Get outdoors and into the natural world. There’s healing power in nature, which has a transcendent quality and encompasses the cycle of life.

Grief and loss are natural and inevitable parts of life. When we experience the death of a loved one, a relationship breakup, the loss of a job, or any other significant loss, we may feel overwhelmed with a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, guilt, and anxiety. Coping with grief and loss can be a challenging and long process that requires time, patience, and self-compassion.

In this article, we will explore some effective ways to cope with grief and loss.

1. Allow yourself to grieve

One of the most important things to do when coping with grief and loss is to allow yourself to grieve. It’s common to want to avoid or suppress painful emotions, but this can prolong the grieving process and make it more difficult to heal. It’s essential to acknowledge and accept your feelings, even if they are uncomfortable or overwhelming.

Grief can take many forms and can include feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, regret, and anxiety. It’s important to recognize that everyone’s grieving process is unique, and there’s no right or wrong way to grieve. Some people may cry often, while others may not shed a single tear. Some may need to talk about their loss, while others may prefer to be alone.

2. Reach out for support

It’s essential to reach out for support when coping with grief and loss. This can include talking to friends or family members, joining a support group, or seeing a therapist. Grief can be a lonely experience, and having a support system can help you feel less isolated.

Talking about your loss with others can be helpful in several ways. It can help you process your emotions, feel validated, and gain new perspectives. It can also remind you that you’re not alone and that others have experienced similar losses.

3. Take care of yourself

When coping with grief and loss, it’s essential to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. This can include eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and practicing self-care activities like yoga or meditation.

It’s also important to give yourself permission to take a break from responsibilities and obligations when needed. Grief can be exhausting, and it’s okay to take time off work, school, or other commitments to prioritize your well-being.

4. Find healthy ways to cope with stress

Coping with grief and loss can be stressful, and it’s important to find healthy ways to manage stress. This can include practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.

It’s important to avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance abuse or excessive alcohol consumption. While these behaviors may provide temporary relief, they can make the grieving process more complicated and lead to long-term problems.

5. Create a new normal

When we experience a significant loss, our lives may never be the same again. It’s essential to create a new normal and find ways to adjust to life without our loved one or the things we lost.

This can include finding new hobbies or activities, creating new traditions, or finding new ways to connect with others. While it may feel difficult or uncomfortable at first, creating a new normal can help us move forward and find a sense of meaning and purpose after our loss.

6. Practice self-compassion

Lastly, it’s essential to practice self-compassion when coping with grief and loss. This means treating yourself with kindness, patience, and understanding.

It’s common to experience self-blame or guilt after a significant loss, but it’s important to recognize that these feelings are normal and part of the grieving process. Instead of being critical or judgmental of yourself, try to practice self-compassion by being kind, understanding, and forgiving.

1. Guidance and Support: A grief coach provides valuable guidance and support throughout your grief journey. They have the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of grief and provide you with the tools and resources you need to heal.

2. Clarity and Perspective: Grief can often cloud our judgment and perspective. A coach can help you gain clarity by offering a fresh and objective viewpoint. They can help you make sense of your emotions and thoughts, allowing you to see the bigger picture and make informed decisions.

3. Validation and Empathy: Grief can make us feel isolated and misunderstood. A coach offers a safe and non-judgmental space where you can express your emotions freely. They provide validation and empathy, reassuring you that your feelings are normal and helping you feel heard and understood.

4. Customized Approach: Each person’s grief journey is unique. A coach understands this and tailors their approach to your specific needs. They work closely with you to develop a personalized plan that addresses your challenges, goals, and desires, ensuring you receive the support that is most relevant to your journey.

5. Emotional Healing: Grief coaching focuses on emotional healing and provides strategies and techniques to help you process and release your emotions. Your coach will guide you through various exercises and practices to promote healing, resilience, and inner peace.

6. Setting Goals and Creating a Vision: Grief can leave us feeling lost and uncertain about the future. A coach can assist you in setting meaningful goals and creating a vision for your life beyond grief. They help you identify what is truly important to you and support you in taking actionable steps towards a fulfilling future.

7. Accountability and Motivation: Grief can be overwhelming, and it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of despair. A coach keeps you accountable and motivated, providing gentle encouragement and support to help you stay on track with your healing journey. They help you overcome obstacles, celebrate your progress, and inspire you to keep moving forward.

8. Building Resilience: Grief coaching helps you build resilience and develop coping mechanisms to navigate the challenges of grief. Your coach equips you with practical tools and strategies to manage stress, regulate your emotions, and cultivate self-care practices that promote overall well-being.

9. Transformation and Growth: While grief is undoubtedly painful, it also presents an opportunity for transformation and growth. A coach guides you through this process, helping you uncover the lessons and wisdom within your grief. They empower you to use your experience as a catalyst for personal growth, self-discovery, and a renewed sense of purpose.

10. A Companion on Your Journey: Grief can be a lonely and isolating experience. Having a coach as your companion on this journey provides solace, comfort, and encouragement. They walk alongside you, providing unwavering support, understanding, and encouragement, reminding you that you are not alone.

Hiring a grief coach can be a transformative investment in your well-being and future. They provide the expertise, compassion, and guidance necessary to navigate the challenges of grief and create a life filled with hope, healing, and resilience.