STHS Behavioral Webinar on Coping with Grief & Loss, August 7th 

Mega Doctor News

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There’s no denying that grief and loss can significantly impact mental and physical well-being, which can lead to a wide range of emotional, cognitive and behavioral changes.

Typically, a complex and painful process, grief is a natural response to a significant loss that challenges one’s identity or life routines, such as the passing of a loved one, the death of a pet, the end of a relationship, a chronic illness diagnosis or losing financial stability due to a career loss. 

While it’s the exact prevalence of grief in the United States is unclear, about 2.5 million Americans die annually, per the National Institutes of Health, each leaving an average of five grieving people behind.

When experiencing grief and loss, it’s important to give yourself grace and time to heal, especially since there’s no set timeline for grief. 

But health experts warn that persistent symptoms lasting longer than six months to a year warrant professional attention.

That’s because untreated grief can impair daily functioning and trigger or exacerbate depression and anxiety. Over time, it can lead to prolonged emotional distress, physical ailments and even life-threatening conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and heart disease, as well as an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors and substance use disorders.

Seeking professional help like therapy or counseling can help provide support, coping strategies and a safe space to process emotions, ultimately promoting healing and a return to a fulfilling life. 

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So, to help Rio Grande Valley residents understand the impact of grief and loss on mental and physical health, South Texas Health System Behavioral will dedicate its latest Let’s Talk Mental Health webinar to the topic. 

Streaming live via STHS’ Facebook page on Thursday, August 7, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., an STHS Behavioral mental health professional will discuss the common causes of grief, complications associated with prolonged anguish and important strategies and tips for grieving.

For more information on the webinar, visit the STHS Facebook Events page. If you’d like to view previous Let’s Talk Mental Health seminars, visit STHSLetsTalk.com.