Question

Give examples of both positive and negative strategies to either a tangible or symbolic loss.

Answer 1

Give examples of both positive and negative strategies to either a tangible or symbolic loss.

Tangible loss
A loss that is material in nature mostly related to money, properties or possessions.

Symbolic or Intangible loss
The loss of a loved one either through estrangement or death.

Positive strategies in handling a symbolic loss

1. Friendship & Family: Turning towards our loved ones in the form of friends or even family during periods of coping with loss can be helpful in coping with it. The fact that one has support and is protected by people one loves could be a big factor contributing to better coping. Example, Taking the time to go out on a picnic with family or spend an evening out with friends to clear the head
2. Time for self & hobbies: Taking time to take care of one's mental and physical well being. Indulging in interests and spending time on hobbies could be helpful to come to terms with the loss. Example, Taking up an art class or having a spa session.
3. Physical activity: Ensuring that exercise or some kind of physical activity is incorporated as part of daily routine. Example, Running every day consistently for 5 miles (or) taking a jog in the park (or) hitting the gym for half an hour every day - all these activities could take mind off the loss.
4. Nutrition & Sleep: Bringing in proper eating habits and sticking to the sleep cycle. For example, Inclusion of fresh veggies and greens in the diet, choosing nuts over junk food, sleeping on time every day are some of the positive ways to cope up with the loss.

Negative strategies for handling a symbolic loss

1. Drugs & Alchohol: Being in a state of intoxication such that the loss is not in the mind. For example, Turning towards drugs & alcohol, misuse and excessive use of it to numb the mind so as to forget that the loss has occurred.
2. Ignoring & avoiding: Running away from the fact that the loss has occurred. Not acknowledging that the loss has occurred. For example, people may act as though such a loss has not happened at all. This actually leads to more mental health issues in the long run.
3. Denial mode: The person who has lost is not ready to grieve because the person is unable to believe that a loss has occurred. For example, they continue to hold onto things & memories in hope that the loved one is not dead and may come back.
4. Work addiction: This is just like abuse of drugs or alcohol, except that the rush is caused by overwork. For example, The person tends to not care about anything other than work and is always occupies in work so that the stress of losing a loved one does not hit them.