Grief is the process of reacting to a loss. This loss could be physical (death of a loved one), social (such as a divorce), or occupational (such as work-related). An individual experiencing grief may have conflicted feelings and may experience fluctuations in symptoms throughout their process. Often times, individuals might feel as though they have accepted the loss and have gotten closure. However, later on they may begin to experience grief again and that is okay. Closure is not a one-time thing, it can happen over the course of weeks, months, or even years. Sometimes we are able to gain closure on certain aspects of the loss, and other parts may take a bit longer. Individuals may find that their emotional reaction changes and fluctuates, and can entail different emotions and behaviors. Feelings of sadness can also begin to intensify as the individual begins to yearn to be with the loved one again.
Psychotherapy can be effective in helping an individual overcome grief by allowing the individual to come to terms with the loss, to help work through pain and grief, and help to learn how to move forward and adapt to a life without the loved one. Psychotherapy can also help you to find ways to maintain a connection with the loss. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches have been successful in helping to treat grief and loss. Additionally, Relaxation Techniques and Mindfulness-based interventions, may also be helpful.
Book an appointment today! Overcoming grief and loss can feel overwhelming. It can impact various aspects of your overall well-being. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional in order to overcome grief. Grief and loss is just one of the areas that LifeCycle Counselling specializes in.