Grief & Loss
“Our grief is as individual as our lives.” -Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Defining Grief
Grief can be described as the sense of distress or despair that follows significant loss. Even though grief is experienced by everyone differently, it is a natural response to loss that connects us all. People may experience a wide range of emotions such as sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, or even relief. These emotions can come in waves, fluctuating in intensity and duration over time. Additionally, grief can manifest in physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. No matter the type of loss, grief can be devastating. You are not alone, and there is support available.
Curious about the different types of grief?
Exploring the Various Types of Loss:
Loss can take many forms, and each type carries its own unique set of challenges and emotions. Here are some common types of loss that individuals may experience:
Loss of a Loved One: The death of a family member, friend, or partner can be one of the most profound and devastating losses one can endure. The grief that follows the loss of a loved one is often accompanied by a range of emotions, such as sadness, disbelief, and a deep sense of longing.
Loss of a Pet: For many people, pets are considered cherished members of the family. The loss of a beloved pet can evoke intense grief and a profound sense of emptiness. The bond between humans and their animal companions can be incredibly strong, making the loss deeply felt.
Loss of a Relationship: The end of a significant relationship, whether it is a romantic partnership, a close friendship, or a familial bond, can lead to a profound sense of loss. Coping with the dissolution of a relationship often involves navigating emotions such as heartache, anger, and the need to readjust one's life without the presence of the other person.
Loss of a Home or Community: Displacement due to natural disasters, forced evictions, or being uprooted from a long-standing community can result in a deep sense of loss. Losing a home or community can disrupt one's sense of belonging, stability, and security, leading to feelings of grief and displacement.
Loss of a Job: Losing employment can be a significant loss, impacting an individual's financial stability, sense of purpose, and self-esteem. The loss of a job can trigger emotions such as shock, anxiety, and the need to navigate the challenges of unemployment.
Loss of Identity/Self: Life transitions, such as retirement, a debilitating illness, or a major life change, can bring about a loss of identity and a sense of self. Adjusting to a new way of life, which may be different from what one had envisioned, can lead to feelings of grief and the need to rediscover one's identity.
Traumatic loss refers to a loss that is sudden, unexpected, and/or violent. Examples of traumatic loss include accidental death, homicide, and suicide. These types of losses can result in complex and prolonged grieving processes, often accompanied by intense shock, disbelief, and profound emotional turmoil.
While grieving a loss or multiple losses, it is common to experience a wide range of emotional and physical symptoms. Some emotions can feel conflicting, but it is completely normal to experience a complex mix of emotions in response to loss. Our team can support you through this.
Wondering how to start the healing process for grief and loss?
Grief can be incredibly overwhelming and painful for anyone. Although the pain of grief may never fully go away, there are ways to cope and reduce suffering. Here are some things that can help:
-Grief Therapy
-Support Groups
-Connecting with Trusted Family and Friends
-Honoring Your Loss