Coping With National Tragedy: 5 Ways to Process Grief and Sadness
Practical strategies for healing, protecting your peace, and finding hope after devastating events
Last week was a tough one. More school shootings, the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the murder of an Ukrainian immigrant, and the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 terror attacks all weighed heavily. Thousands lost their lives that day in 2001, and countless more lives have been impacted since.
September 11th also happens to be my birthday. For years, it was a somber day, difficult to celebrate. But once I realized it is now observed as Patriot Day, it became easier to honor both my life and the lives of those lost, knowing their sacrifice was not in vain. Life, somehow, finds a way to go on.
I’ll be the first to admit that events like these impact my mood. I felt deeply sad and began searching for answers to the question, “Why did this happen?” Like many, I turned to social media and news outlets. Instead of answers, I found theories, commentary, and arguments that did little to ease the ache. My thoughts kept returning to the families whose lives will never be the same—parents without children, children without parents.
I know I’m not alone in these feelings. So the question becomes: how do we begin to process emotions like anger and sadness? We’re entitled to feel them, of course. But at what point do those emotions keep us from fully living our lives?
Here are five supportive tips that can help process these difficult moments:
1. Allow Space to Feel
Tragedies can stir sadness, fear, anger, or numbness. Instead of pushing emotions down, acknowledge what you’re feeling without judgment. Journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or even naming the emotion aloud can bring relief.
2. Limit Media Overload
Constant exposure to news, especially polarizing or sensational content, can intensify distress. Set boundaries: check updates once or twice a day from credible sources, and avoid doom scrolling.
3. Engage in Community Support
Connection heals. Whether by attending vigils, joining support groups, or engaging in compassionate conversations, shared grieving reduces isolation and restores a sense of collective strength.
4. Channel Emotions into Action
Turning pain into purpose can help. Volunteer, advocate for change, donate, or support organizations promoting healing and safety. Taking constructive action restores a sense of agency.
5. Prioritize Self-Care and Seek Help if Needed
Healing takes time. Lean into rest, routines, movement, and calming practices like meditation or prayer. And if despair feels overwhelming, seeking support from a counselor or therapist is a brave, healthy choice.
For me, limiting social media and taking action brought relief. I picked up my crochet hook and some yarn to start a new holiday project. Crocheting brings me peace and serves as a comforting diversion. I also found solace in prayer and attending church.
The truth is, I don’t have all the answers. Maybe I never will—at least not until I meet my Maker. Evil exists—pure and simple. But what I can do, and what we all can do, is live our best lives and strive to be the best versions of ourselves.
Remember, healing takes time, but you don’t have to walk through it alone. If you’re looking for guidance, support, or simply a safe space to process, I invite you to connect with me. Together, we can move forward with courage and compassion. 💛
Until next time,
Coach Deborah Griffiths
Website: www.brokentoboldness.com
Email: deborah@brokentoboldness.com
P.S.: Whether you're looking for tools to support your healing journey and personal growth resources. Explore guides, books, reflections, and practical content designed to help you grow in confidence, clarity, and courage as you move from brokenness to boldness. You can access our resources on the links below:
Handling Life Transitions? Alignment Workbook
Start your journey to Self-Discovery and Growth with The Bold and Boldness Journal
Learn the Importance of Telling Your Story: Top Ten Reasons Why You Should Open Up!
Red flags of gaslighting: Top Ten Ways to be Gaslighted!
How to Write Your Book in 60 DaysUntil next time,
Coach Deborah Griffiths
Website: www.brokentoboldness.com
Email: deborah@brokentoboldness.com