What are Grief and Loss?

Simply put, grief is the experience of loss. Many people associate grief with death, however, people experience grief after any substantial loss that affects their life, such as the loss of a job, relationship, or diagnosis of an illness or other health problem.

People experience grief in many different ways. They may feel shock, sadness, anger, fear, anxiety, guilt, numbness or an inability to feel. At times, people may even feel relief after a loss.

Grief is complicated as there is not one way it is experienced. Feelings, thoughts, reactions, and the challenges related to grief are unique and personal. One thing seems to be a constant: people work through grief in their own time and in their own way.

How can therapy help with Grief and Loss?

When a person’s grief-related thoughts, behaviours, and actions are impeding their quality of life, therapy may be of help. Therapy is an effective way to learn to cope with the stresses associated with loss and to manage symptoms with techniques such as relaxation or meditation.

Each experience of grief is unique, complex, and personal, and therapists will tailor treatment to meet the specific needs of each person.