An unhealthy strategy for coping with death and dying can include avoidance behaviors, such as:
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Suppression of Emotions: Failing to acknowledge feelings of grief, sadness, anger, or confusion can lead to emotional and physical issues later on.
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Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family, and social support can intensify feelings of loneliness and despair.
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Substance Abuse: Using alcohol or drugs to numb the pain or escape from feelings can lead to addiction and additional problems.
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Denial: Refusing to accept the reality of the situation can prevent healing and make it difficult to process emotions and experiences.
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Bargaining: Making unrealistic deals with oneself or a higher power in an attempt to change the reality of death can be counterproductive and lead to further distress.
In contrast, healthier strategies involve seeking support, expressing emotions, and finding ways to remember and honor the deceased while allowing oneself to grieve.
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