A Gift of Hope How We Survive Our Tragedies

by VENINGA, ROBERT L.

• ISBN13: 9780345410368
• ISBN10: 034541036X
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 1996-09-29
• Publisher: Ballantine Books

Summary

Tragedy is a part of life, it is a part of the human mystery which we all must face. A Gift of Hope is a moving, beautifully written book that will give you the understanding and the self-assurance to overcome the anger and the loneliness, the suffering and the pain of your own personal travail: the loss of a loved one, the heartbreak of a handicapped child, a debilitating illness, an unwanted divorce, a severe financial setback. Here is a practical and inspirational guide to help you express your sorrow and begin the process of healing -- to help you move from sadness to serenity, from fear to faith, and to find courage in your moment of crisis. -- How to identify the stages of grief and recognize your need for help -- How to soothe the initial panic and relieve the long-term anxiety -- How to preserve your health, resist self-destructive impulses, and renew your sense of well-being -- How to draw on family and friends for spiritual solace and emotional support -- When to seek professional guidance, with a comprehensive list of national organizations

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Straight from the Heart	3	(6)
Section One: The Anatomy of a Crisis	9	(74)
The Stages of Heartbreak	11	(32)
Characteristics of a Crisis	43	(15)
How People Survive Adversity	58	(25)
Section Two: Survival Strategies	83	(150)
Preserving Your Health in Tough Times	85	(27)
What Happens to the Family in a Crisis	112	(42)
Getting By with a Little Help from Your Friends	154	(26)
Finding Competent Professional Help	180	(27)
Affirming a Faith	207	(26)
Section Three: What If the Pain Doesn't Go Away?	233	(50)
Death Wishes	235	(23)
Ordinary Heroes	258	(25)
Appendix A Survey on Human Loss and Recovery	283	(2)
Appendix B Names and Addresses of Self-Help Organizations	285	(10)
Chapter Notes	295	(11)
Further Reading	306