Today, many people will be left feeling bereft, as though they themselves have lost a family member, but unable to explain the root of their sadness in words. A psychologist has shared her tips for dealing with grief and says it’s important for members of the public to know that their "feelings are valid" following the loss of the Queen, which as impacted many.
Dr Elizabeth Paddock, 32, says that it's 'normal' for members of the public to feel grief or overwhelming emotions after the sudden loss of Her Majesty. Elizabeth says that it's important you remember 'your grief is valid'.
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Dr Elizabeth has shared her tips to help those who are struggling with the Queen's passing, or those who are dealing with personal grief after losing their own loved ones.
Dr Elizabeth's tips include being patient with yourself, making lists or setting reminders for important things as 'time passes differently when you're grieving', speaking to family and friends and validating your grief.
She explains that every response to grief will be unique, but when grieving, people often have a loss of appetite, experience headaches or can suffer with insomnia.
Elizabeth, a psychologist, from Nottingham, East Midlands, said: “It’s important to recognise that our feelings are valid. We may not have met the Queen but for many she has been a poignant part of their lives.
“She’s been there at Christmas’ and through the pandemic. Many are rightly upset and grieving the loss of their Queen.”
She went on to explain that the Royal Family will be experiencing the same things, saying: "They will also be dealing with a whole range of emotions like fear and anxiety."
Elizabeth acknowledged the fact the loss of the Queen can bring up emotions of a previous loss, saying: "It can be a time to think about our own losses. Or the fact that it’s another moment in history that a parent or loved one isn’t there with you to experience.
"Do what is right for you. Seek a support group or family and friends if you need to. There is no correct feeling to have or way to grieve. People will be feeling a whole range of emotions. Setting lists and reminders is important as time passes differently during a period of grief.
“Above all remember that your grief is valid.”
You can leave your tributes to Queen Elizabeth II here
This weekend, the Daily Mirror and Sunday Mirror celebrate the life of Her Majesty the Queen with a commemorative special filled with all the key moments from Britain’s longest reigning monarch. Be sure to pick up your copy of the Daily Mirror and Sunday Mirror to get both pullouts.
