Grief
Grief usually follows some sort of loss — whether that is the death of a loved one, or a divorce/separation, loss of a job, or some other significant change in life that means leaving behind something cherished. We also use the term ‘bereavement’ when talking about the period of sadness that follows a major loss.
What is Grief?
Grief is a valid response to loss and these feelings can be overwhelming. People deal with grief and loss in their own way. The passage of time may take the edge off the pain and it can help people move past their negative feelings to reach a point of healing.
The Grief Process
There are a number of stages in the grief process as follows:
- Denial — initially it is difficult to believe the loss has happened — there are usually feelings of numbness, as if you are living in a dream.
- Anger — it is quite normal to feel angry — even anger towards a loved one who has died is normal.
- Depression — once you begin to realise the loss has happened and you cannot change it, many people feel angry and frustrated.
- Acceptance — acknowledging the loss and accepting that it has happened and your situation will not change — it is time to move on.
Grief is a normal reaction to loss and no two people experience grief in the same way. It is a process that all people must go through when they experience the loss of someone or something dear to them.