Over the course of our lives, we all experience grief because of a loss. Grief is a normal, and necessary, reaction to losses of all kinds (e.g., loss of a job, loss of finances, etc.), but usually the most troubling occurs when we experience the death of a loved one.

After experiencing such loss, we may ask ourselves why this happened to us, or how we are going to be able to make it through another day and move forward with our lives. The profound devastation, sadness, anger, confusion, and denial we experience are part of grief.

Each person will react to and manage their grief in different ways; often described as the “stages of grief”; denial, anger, bargaining, sadness, and acceptance. While we may face these different experiences because of our bereavement process, there is no one formula, process, or specific amount of time for grief. When do you need help? We can’t adapt to our loss. There are times when grief gets complicated.
Complicated grief may include:
• Acute grief over a long period of time,  such that it is always as if the loss just happened.
• Difficulty concentrating due to a preoccupation with the loss.
• Feelings of worthlessness and meaninglessness.
• Recurring feelings of being numb or in a daze.
• Denial that the loss occurred.
• Changes in personal relationships.
• Avoiding grief altogether (e.g., avoiding anything that is a reminder of the grief).
• Engaging in self-destructive activities (e.g., alcohol, drugs, risky behavior).
• Inability to regulate emotions.

If you or someone you know is experiencing complicated grief, we are here to support you. To turn that uncontrollable sadness and pain into a quiet, peaceful space to gain clarity and meaning. To live more healthy, free, and connected lives. Gives us a call. We can help.