Understanding Grief and Bereavement: Navigating Loss with Support

Understanding Grief and Bereavement: Navigating Loss with Support

 

Grief is a natural, though often overwhelming, response to loss. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or even the end of a relationship, the emotional impact can feel all-consuming. Everyone experiences grief in their own way, and there’s no set timeline for when the pain will subside. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone, and it’s okay to seek help in understanding and processing these emotions.

Each year, Canada observes National Grief and Bereavement Day on the third Tuesday in November. This day is a reminder that recognizing grief in ourselves and others is important, and that support is available for those facing loss. Grief doesn’t only affect older adults; it touches people of all ages, including children and teens, who may experience loss in different but equally profound ways. At The Therapy Centre, we have therapists who specialize in working with children, teens, adults, and families, providing a safe space for all to navigate their grief.

 

Symptoms of Grief

Grief looks different to everyone, and sometimes, we experience symptoms that aren’t immediately recognizable as related to loss. Below are some symptoms of bereavement that you may not be familiar with and which a therapist can help address:

• Physical Symptoms: Grief isn’t just emotional; it can also affect the body. People may experience headaches, fatigue, muscle tension, or even digestive issues, all of which could be linked to unprocessed grief.
• Cognitive Impairment: Many people find that their ability to focus or concentrate decreases after a loss. They may need help remembering things or making decisions, which can feel confusing or frustrating.
• Irritability and Anger: While sadness is often associated with grief, irritability and anger can also emerge. This can be directed at oneself, others, or even the person who passed away, and it may not be immediately recognized as a part of grieving.
• Social Withdrawal: Some individuals might withdraw from social activities or feel isolated, even if they don’t consciously connect these behaviours to their grief. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and intensify the grieving process.
• Guilt or Self-Blame: People may experience guilt or regret, even over things beyond their control. This can lead to intrusive thoughts like “I should have done more” or “What if I had done something differently?”
• Numbness or Emotional Detachment: Instead of feeling overwhelmed by sadness, some people might feel numb, detached, or emotionally “flat.” This disconnection from their emotions can be challenging to understand and is often overlooked as a symptom of grief.
• Sudden Mood Swings: Grief can cause unexpected mood swings, where someone might feel fine one moment and deeply upset the next. These swings are part of the grieving process but can feel disorienting.
• Overworking or Avoiding Emotions: In an attempt to avoid the pain of grief, some people might throw themselves into work, hobbies, or other distractions. This can prevent them from processing their loss, leading to long-term emotional struggles.

A therapist can help individuals recognize these symptoms as part of the grieving process, providing tools and strategies to address them in a healthy, constructive way. By working through these often overlooked aspects of grief, therapy can support emotional and mental healing.

How Can a Therapist Help with Grief and Bereavement?

• Processing Emotions: Therapists help clients understand and express their feelings, which can often feel confusing or overwhelming after a loss.
• Developing Coping Strategies: Grief can trigger a range of emotions from sadness and anger to guilt and numbness. A therapist can provide personalized strategies to cope with these feelings in a healthy way.
• Helping Children and Teens: Grief can look very different in younger people. Our therapists work with children and teens to help them understand and express their feelings, especially when they might not have the words to explain what they’re going through.
• Facilitating Family Conversations: Loss affects the entire family. A therapist can guide family members in communicating their feelings and supporting one another through the process of grief.
• Honouring the Loss: Therapy can provide space for clients to reflect on the meaning of the loss and to find ways to honour and remember their loved ones.

Remember, grief isn’t something to “get over” but something to work through, and having support along the way can make a world of difference. If you or a loved one is navigating loss, consider reaching out to a professional for help.

The Therapy Centre is here to help

If you’re struggling with the pain of loss and finding it hard to cope, know that you don’t have to go through it alone. Our compassionate team at The Therapy Centre is here to support you. Whether you’re dealing with grief yourself or helping a loved one navigate their emotions, our therapists are experienced in working with individuals and families of all ages. Reach out to us today to start your healing journey—together, we can help you find comfort and understanding through this difficult time.

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