Grief is a natural part of life, but that doesn't mean it's easy to manage. Grief can feel huge and all-encompassing. When you're in the middle of it, you may feel like you'll never be happy again. Adequate emotional support is important at these times. Grief support can help you navigate the tumultuous emotions that can result from loss so you can get back on your feet. Here are four ways you can access the type of grief support that you need:

1. Call a mental health hotline.

Family members and friends can be an excellent source of emotional support, but they may not always be available. Additionally, some people feel uncomfortable talking about their grief to people they know. Mental health hotlines can offer grief support at any time of the day or night, seven days a week. When you call a support hotline, you will be able to talk to someone who has been specially trained to provide grief counseling. Mental health hotlines are free to use, so you should feel free to take advantage of them as much as you need to.

2. Visit a support group.

Getting support in person can be important when dealing with grief. Grief support groups allow people who are dealing with loss to gather together to talk and listen to one another. Spending time with others who understand your struggles can help you feel less isolated.

3. Talk to your doctor.

Your doctor can be a good resource if you're struggling with grief. Some people find antidepressants helpful when they're dealing with loss that feels too overwhelming. If you're having trouble sleeping, eating, and completing your daily tasks, you may need medical assistance. Your doctor can help you figure out if antidepressants are right for you. If you do decide to take antidepressants, you don't need to stay on them permanently. Many people take antidepressants for a short time and find that they no longer need them once they have processed their grief.

4. Schedule an appointment with a counselor.

Mental health counselors can be of great help when you're dealing with grief. Counselors are trained to help people manage their emotions through talk therapy. Talking about your feelings of grief with a therapist can help you process them. Speaking to a therapist can be especially helpful if you've begun to develop symptoms of depression, a serious mental illness that often requires professional help.