Good grief!

When loss or bereavement is harder than you thought...

Throughout our lives we will all experience loss and bereavement, some losses unfortunately, are harder than others. Loss does not only refer to when a loved one (or not so loved one) passes away, it could be the loss of a significant relationship, employment or identity.

Whenever we experience a loss, of any kind, great or small, we go through a natural process that moves us through the difficult feelings to a calmer place of acceptance.

When things get a little tougher

This process however can become blocked for a whole host of reasons, for instance, when the loss is so great, traumatic, or at a time when natural coping ability is low. It is such circumstances that lead to unresolved loss or grief. This can lead to you experiencing difficult thoughts and emotions which can impact on all areas of your life including your close relationships and work. You may also experience disturbances with your sleeping or eating which can negatively affect your physical health and well-being.

Family and friends

Many people find it hardest to talk to the people closest to them. Particularly when a loss has affected an entire family, as everyone will be trying to cope in their own way, this can present more difficulties. Some people want to appear to be coping better than they actually are in order to support other family members. There may be anger, blame or guilt feelings to deal with. Additionally, handling the practicalities of a loss may uncover further problems, where legal or financial matters need sorting. 

It is in these circumstances that counselling can help people effectively process loss and grief, in their own way, at their own pace.

Loss can be very difficult to deal with; if you are struggling, do not be afraid to seek support.