Grief Support
Grief Support
Every individual navigates the loss of a loved one in their own unique way. Though the grieving process varies for each of us, we often share common emotions as we journey toward healing from our loss.
Our responses to the various emotions encountered during the grieving process are often delineated as "stages." These stages aren't bound to a strict timeline, and individuals don't necessarily progress through them in a linear fashion. They may endure for minutes or hours, with it being common to move in and out of stages or cycle back to a previous one multiple times as grief is navigated.
Commonly observed stages during the grieving process include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance.
Initially, there may be a sense of detachment, shock, or numbness, accompanied by wonderment at why one isn't experiencing more profound sorrow. This disconnect serves as a coping mechanism, allowing basic functioning amidst extreme stress. Denial helps carry out essential tasks in the immediate aftermath of loss.
Anger often follows, providing a connection from the initial numbness. Anger may be directed towards doctors, family, the departed, or even a higher power. It's a vital stage in the healing process, intertwined with pain.
Before and after the loss, "if only" and "what if" scenarios may dominate thoughts, accompanied by feelings of guilt during bargaining. Self-reflection and attempts to alter outcomes may become prevalent to mitigate present pain.
Subsequently, a deeper level of emptiness and grief manifests, signifying depression. This isn't indicative of mental illness but rather a natural response to significant loss. Not experiencing depression after a loss would be atypical; it's a necessary step in healing.
Ultimately, acceptance of the bereavement occurs, integrating the loss into one's narrative and history. It no longer dominates life as intensely, leading to increased tranquility. Interests and enjoyment in activities may resurface, with new relationships and pursuits emerging. Living with loss becomes constructive and healing.
How long will these feelings last?
Grief is as individual as the person experiencing it, with each individual navigating their own unique path toward healing. While there's no set timeframe for completing the grieving process, many experts suggest that it's not uncommon for it to take at least a year to progress through it.
Complicated Grief
The duration of the mourning process can also be influenced by factors such as your relationship to the deceased and the level of support you receive.
At times, the healing process may be disrupted or prolonged by previous traumatic losses or events in a person's life. This can be particularly true if the other loss is recent or has not been fully processed. This experience of grief is termed "complicated grief." Seeking support from professionals trained in addressing complex grief issues can be beneficial for those dealing with this type of grief.
If, even after some time has passed, you find that your grief remains persistent and disrupts your daily functioning, it may be helpful to seek professional counseling.
