According to the Holmes-Rahe Life Change Index Scale, the death of a spouse and that of a close family member fall into the top five most stressful events a person could experience. Though, you may not even notice the stress at first, as the grief may be overwhelming.
Amid all of this, how are you and your family supposed to handle the legal processes of probate and estate administration? Here are some helpful – and healthful – tips to consider.
3 tips each – managing stress and grief
To effectively handle stress, it could help to:
- Keep a journal, to work through events and emotions
- Prioritize wellness, including proper sleep and regular exercise
- Try calming strategies, like breathing techniques
At the same time, to cope with grief, you may find it beneficial to:
- Avoid isolating, lean on your family and friends
- Recognize and allow yourself to feel all your emotions, no matter how complex they are
- Keep your routines as normal as possible
Of course, you should find strategies that work best for you. What is important is to be proactive. As we have discussed in previous blog posts, California probate can be a complex process, lasting up to a year. Left unchecked, the long-term effects of stress could be serious for both your mental and physical health.
Help is available when you need it
You do not have to go through this stressful process alone. There is professional help available to support your physical and mental health, as well as guide you through probate. Many people tend to avoid both mental health and legal counseling – whether it is due to stigma or cost.
However, it is important not to overlook the services open to you, especially when they are designed to help you when times get tough. Your loved one trusted you to uphold and fulfill their wishes, but they would not want it to be at the expense of your health. Do not be afraid to seek help for whatever you may need during this time.
Reach out to The Probate House L.C. at 424-452-2375 for a free consultation.