Do I Need A Joy Restoration (grief) Coach?

Amidst life's challenges, joy emerges as a resilient happiness, independent of circumstances.

At any moment, millions of people in the U.S. are likely experiencing grief. It usually takes about 5 to 8 years to heal from a major loss and regain one's former level of functioning. While I may not know you personally, can anyone really afford to endure pain for such a long time? Unfortunately, misunderstandings about grief have led to unnecessary suffering. Unresolved grief can manifest as fear, insecurity, overreactions to certain situations, feelings of despair, and a preference for solitude.

What is a Joy Restoration coach? Essentially, it involves coaching that aids in moving forward through grief and rediscovering joy in life. But how can we find joy amidst suffering? It seems contradictory, I understand. However, to discover joy, one must first grasp its essence. Biblical joy is a profound, enduring sense of gladness and peace derived from knowing, trusting, and having a relationship with God—regardless of the circumstances. Unlike happiness, which often depends on external factors, biblical joy is anchored in God's presence, His promises, and the hope we have in Christ. Joy is attainable even during difficulties because it is based on who God is, not on the events around us.

A Joy Restoration (grief) coach is necessary when the loss is no longer recent, but:

The information that follows is based on the teachings of Leelo Bush, a master life coach guided by spiritual principles.

1. Your mind continually returns to what or whom you have lost, rather than concentrating on the current moment.

2. You feel so exhausted that you don't have the energy to handle daily activities or care for yourself, including grooming, resting, exercising, and eating properly.

3. You continue to experience emotional pain connected to your loss.

4. You feel alone in your pain.

5. You can't understand why God would allow your loss to happen.

6. You feel powerless.

7. You can't envision a future without the person you've lost.

8. You have ceased sharing your emotions with others because you're concerned they might not handle them well.

9. You need regain a sense of control over your life.

10. You've been relying on time to mend your pain, but it hasn't been effective so far.

11. You've established a shrine or memorial for the person you lost, and it's important to release them in order to move forward.

12. It's important to realize that finishing your grieving process does not show disrespect to the person you've lost.

13. You worry about your emotional stability when you think about the loss.

14. You feel like you haven't achieved closure regarding your loss.

Regardless of whether you decide to work with a grief coach, I encourage you to think about choosing one with a spiritual focus. Many secular teachings emphasize relying solely on yourself to manage your happiness and overcome grief through your own strength. In contrast, a Christian grief coach will encourage you to trust in God, as He is your strength and you are not alone. As stated in Nehemiah 8:10, "Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

Prayer: Dear Lord, as we work through our grief, we rely on Your strength. Though we are weak, You are strong. This life, though filled with challenges, comes with the assurance of Your constant presence. Lead us to those who can support us in overcoming and progressing through our difficulties. Help us rediscover joy. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.