Oftentimes the first question that comes to mind when an individual experiences a loss is “Why?”. While trying to find their way as they pass through the emotional up and down waves. Having a loss of a friend, and loved ones always impacts you differently. The relationships you’ve experienced, the time you spent and the feelings and emotions that have developed for that special person will have a lasting impact on your life.
There are many different types of losses and the impacts can be different for each person. The loss of a loved one sometimes comes with having to navigate how to go through the stressful process of making sure the funeral arrangements are in place and communicating with children about the loss. The emotion of feeling alone may increase as well as not knowing the future with finances in the loss of a spouse or partner. In the loss of a parent, it may cause a person to have guilt and can even be a traumatic experience for children as well as adults. It is very difficult for individuals or couples when they lose a child. The grief can turn to blame and guilt. It can also put a strain on the relationship with the spouse or partner. The loss of a friend can be hard as you lose the companionship of that loved one. With an unexpected loss due to one ending their life can be difficult to process as one tries to understand how could this have happened. If you identify with any of these and are having a difficult time with the grieving process individual or a group support group may be helpful.
A few important ways that an individual that has experienced a loss can cope are:
1. Understanding that grief can trigger unexpected emotions and that your grieving process is different from anyone else’s.
2. Understanding the difference if you are experiencing grief or depression.
3. Seek out support from a therapist, support groups and family who care about you.
According to Kubler-Ross, the ability to determine what stage a person may fall in when they experience a loss are:
1. Denial- which is used to numb the situation
2. Anger- that can turn into bitterness or resentment
3. Bargaining- thinking a lot about “what if” and “if only” statements
4. Depression- can turn into isolation and feeling confused
5. Acceptance- you have accepted what has happened and what it means to move forward in your life.
Life brings unexpected situations but being able to navigate with positive people supporting you allows the healing process to take its course.
If you are in need of support from an individual therapists or group support please fill out our client inquiry form by clicking the tab below and someone will reach out to you.
References
Smith, M., Robinson, L. & Segal, J. (n.d.) Coping with grief and loss. Retrieved from www.helpguide.org
Hamilton, I. (2016). Understanding grief and bereavement. British Journal of General Practice,
66(651):523