Widows are in a personal, emotional crisis where on the surface they look like they have it all together – yet they are running on empty.  They are stretched thin, stressed out and emotionally unavailable. The most common complaints that widows bring to their doctors are; “I feel tired all the time” and “I’m just not interest in life”.  Once all possible physical causes are ruled out, many doctors diagnose mild depression and reach for their prescription pad. But wait – is it really depression or is it grief?  We know that we need to get enough sleep, water, good food and some activities.  However, most of our energy comes from our heart, the kind that manifests as hope, passion, fun and gratefulness - and that energy is just not there. The good news is that widows can make it a priority to protect and replenish their emotional energy.  It’s a skill they can develop as their broken heart heals. Learn to recognize what drains your energy; toxic people, worry, guilt, fear – and take steps to avoid or minimize it. Next, learn to recognize what fills you with energy; family, friends, fun, prayer, meditation, exercise, laughter – and give yourself more of it. It sounds simple doesn’t it?  But for a widow there is nothing simple about grieving and healing.  However, there is hope for widows, just be aware of what is draining your energy and what is lifting it, and focus on what you can control.