Grief is one of life’s toughest challenges. Whether you’re facing the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or another major change, the impact can feel overwhelming. For many men, grief doesn’t just bring sadness, it can shake your sense of identity, confidence, and purpose. If you’re struggling to make sense of your feelings or wondering how to move forward, you’re not alone.

Why Grief Hits Hard

Loss can leave you feeling numb, disoriented, or even angry. You might ask yourself, “Why me?” or wonder if you should just push through and get on with life. The truth is, there’s no “right” way to grieve. Everyone’s experience is different, but many men find it especially hard to open up about what they’re feeling. You might worry about being judged or think you need to handle everything yourself.

Common Reactions to Grief

• Emotional ups and downs, One day you might feel okay, the next you’re struggling just to get out of bed.
• Loss of interest, Hobbies, work, or even spending time with friends can suddenly feel pointless.
• Physical symptoms, Trouble sleeping, changes in appetite, or low energy are all common.
• Self-doubt, You may question your decisions, blame yourself, or feel like you’ve lost your sense of direction.

Steps Toward Healing

If you’re finding it hard to cope with grief, know that healing is possible. Here are some practical steps you can take,

1. Give Yourself Permission to Feel

It’s normal to want to “stay strong,” but bottling things up can make grief linger longer. Allow yourself to feel sadness, anger, or whatever comes up. These emotions are a natural part of the process.

2. Take Care of Your Body

Grief takes a toll on both mind and body. Small actions like going for a walk, eating regular meals, or getting enough sleep can make a real difference. Looking after your health isn’t just about fitness, it’s a way to show yourself respect and start rebuilding confidence.

3. Reach Out for Support

You don’t have to do this alone. Talking with someone you trust, a friend, family member, or qualified counsellor, can help you make sense of your feelings and find a way forward. Sometimes just saying things out loud can lighten the load.

4. Reconnect with What Matters

It’s easy to lose touch with your values and passions after a loss. Try to spend time on activities you used to enjoy, or reach out to people who matter to you. Even small steps, like listening to music, working on a project, or meeting a mate for coffee, can help you reconnect with life.

5. Set Small, Achievable Goals

Grief can make the future feel overwhelming. Instead of focusing on everything at once, set simple goals for each day. Celebrate small wins, and don’t beat yourself up over setbacks. Progress isn’t always a straight line.

6. Know When to Seek Extra Help

If you’re feeling stuck, hopeless, or your grief is affecting your daily life, it might be time to get extra support. Reaching out to a professional counsellor can help you process your loss and find practical tools to move forward.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Healing from grief doesn’t mean forgetting what you’ve lost. It means finding a way to carry your memories with you while building a new sense of self. It’s about moving from pain to growth, one step at a time.

If you’re ready to talk or want support navigating grief, I offer confidential online and telephone counselling. You don’t have to wait for things to get better, taking the first step can make all the difference.

Visit mantomancounselling.com.au or book your free 15 minute call here and start your journey towards recovery.