What is Grief?

Grief is what we experience after the loss of something or someone. This loss could include a job, a friend, a pet, a miscarriage, an abortion, a family member, a separation or divorce. Everyone will experience loss differently. Therefore everyone will express their grief differently.
However, there are several emotions that are universally experienced after a loss. These emotions can cause us distress. They include -

• Disbelief

• Confusion

• Loneliness

• Anger

• Helplessness

• Anxiety

• Guilt

• Relief

• Shame

It is important to understand that any of these symptoms are an important part of the process in coming to terms with a major loss in your life. They only become a problem when we become ‘stuck’ in our grief. As such, we may lose sight of the fact that we are grieving. Day to day, our grief can affect how we experience the world.

Grieving a loss is ultimately a deeply personal and singular experience — counselling or psychotherapy can help you to understand and ultimately manage the complicated process you may be experiencing.
The best thing you can do is to allow yourself to experience the grief as it comes over you. Resisting it only will prolong the natural process of healing. Our role at Oldcastle Counselling Centre is to guide you through this process in a safe, understanding, confidential and professional environment.