Grief occurs in response to the loss of someone or something. The loss may involve a loved one, a job, or possibly a role (such as a student entering the workplace or an employee entering retirement). Anyone can experience grief and loss.
Individuals are unique in how they experience this event. There are a variety of ways that individuals respond to loss. Some are healthy coping mechanisms and some may hinder the grieving process. Acknowledging the grief (instead of ignoring it) promotes the healing process. Time and support will also facilitate the grieving process, allowing an opportunity to appropriately mourn this loss.
Factors that might hinder the healing process:
- Avoidance or minimization of one’s emotions.
- Use of alcohol or drugs to self-medicate.
- Burying yourself in work to avoid your feelings
Experiencing a Loss
Trying to make sense of and to understand a sudden loss can be overwhelming. When someone you love dies suddenly, unexpectedly or violently, the event of the death can leave you feeling alone, bewildered and overcome with floods of grief. There was no time to say good-bye. There was no time to say, "I will always love you."
A sudden and tragic loss shatters our sense of order and thrusts us into a world forever changed. Survivors of sudden loss experience a greater sense of vulnerability and heightened anxiety. The safe world we once knew no longer exists.
At some point in our lives, we all must struggle with the painful experience of suddenly losing a loved one. I can provide a safe and supportive environment to process your grief.