by Carol Gioia

Created on: March 21, 2013   Last Updated: March 22, 2013

Life is not always kind.  You might be blindsided by an untimely death of a loved one, a reversal of financial well-being, a debilitating medical issue or some other unfortunate life-changing event that leaves you depleted of the ability to move forward or enjoy life.Sometimes it is difficult to know where to turn for emotional support when your life turns upside down.  

The following suggestions are designed to help you sort it all out and point you in a direction that might be beneficial:

Turn inward

You could have inner resources that you may not have tapped into; an inner strength that you can call upon to help you regain your equilibrium and think clearly about what to do to remedy your situation.  Sometimes that inner strength comes in the form of meditation, or praying to a higher power.  Often practicing positive thinking is what it takes to cope.  Incorporating exercise is another way to encourage and instill the positive thinking needed to handle a difficult life situation.

Turn outward

If your situation cannot be remedied with the self-help activity outlined above, then  Family and friends can often be a crisis support resource when life becomes unkind.  Whether you need financial help or emotional support, those who love you are apt to be there for you, offering their love and support in whatever way best suits your needs.  

Another viable resource might be a community service organization, if the need is financial.  A religious advisor from your church could be someone to turn to if the requirement is of a spiritual nature, such as needing help to overcome grief.

Turn to professionals for help

If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed and depressed, it may be time to turn to medical professionals.   Your family physician can recommend a therapist or counselor who specializes in your particular area of distress.  You might join a support group and obtain emotional support from others who are having a similar experience in order to see you through the rough times.

Whichever way you turn in your efforts to cope, be aware that you are not alone.  There are many ways to reach out and obtain the comfort and guidance you need when life becomes unbearable.  When life gets you down, use one or all of the suggestions outlined above to help you rise up out of the doldrums and begin to experience joy and fulfillment in your life once more. 

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