Grief

Some of us are experiencing the loss of a loved one.  Many of us are experiencing a loss of freedom, routine, physical connection, community gatherings, special events, the ability to make our own decisions and a loss of income.

Common forms of grief include denial, anger, depression, bargaining and acceptance.  These are not linear stages that we go through, but rather we will may move through these forms in our own way and our own pace.   Grief can also include pain and guilt, and spiritual or existential angst.  

The bigger the loss or amount of change we experience, the greater our grief.  Symptoms of grief can overlap with symptoms of depression, but grieving does not necessarily mean that one is depressed.  Grief is a natural response to loss and the goal is not to stop grieving.  We need to name it, accept it and find ways to tolerate the feelings as we grieve.  With time, we become able to make meaning. 

Things you can do:

1.     Allow yourself to mourn.  How and what are you feeling?  Accept that any feelings are okay.  You may cry, journal, talk to someone that can sit with your pain and listen without trying to cheer you up or fix it.

2.     Create meaningful moments to ground yourself.  What are you be grateful for?  This may include people, experiences, moments, simple pleasures.  Find ways to be present in the here and now through practicing mindfulness or meditation.  

Difficulty with acknowledging and experiencing grief can impact physical and mental health as well as relationships.  Get help if you are struggling.  

Thanks to Barry McCoy, David Kessler and Brene Brown.