Bereavement & loss

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Bereavement and loss, of one sort or another, is something most of us will experience at some point in our lives. I have worked with people grieving the loss of parents, partners, children, siblings, grandparents, cousins, friends and pets. Each person’s experience is different, and as we explore their bereavement, people often find other issues can surface. You may be aware of a range of emotions simultaneously in your grief, and this can feel confusing or troubling. 

I also work with people experiencing anticipatory grief - the feelings that arise when we know that someone is dying - and this can be a way to come to terms with what is happening, or to start to process complex emotions.

Other losses, such as a relationship or a redundancy, can feel overwhelming and I can help you to come to terms with what has happened in cases such as these. Sometimes, a person may wish to explore losses brought about through illness, disability or life transitions such as menopause, and there is more information on some of these here. 

What is bereavement?

Bereavement is the period of mourning that follows the death of someone important to us. It is a process of adjusting to the new reality of life without them. Grief is a natural response to loss, and it can manifest in many different ways, including sadness, anger, guilt, and loneliness.

What is loss?

Loss can refer to anything that we experience as a separation from something or someone that we value. It can be the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, losing a job, or even the loss of a pet. Any type of loss can be painful, and it is important to allow ourselves to grieve, even if it feels difficult.

How to cope with bereavement and loss

  Here are some additional tips that may help you cope with bereavement and loss:

• Be kind to yourself. Allow yourself to grieve at your own pace and in your own way. There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
• Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling to cope, reach out to friends, family, or a professional for support. 
• Take breaks when you need them. It is important to take care of yourself both physically and emotionally. 
• If you are feeling overwhelmed, try to take some time for yourself to relax and de-stress. 
• Find healthy ways to cope with your grief, such as talking to a therapist, journaling, exercising, spending time in nature, or listening to music.
• Remember that healing from loss takes time. Be patient with yourself and don't expect to feel better overnight. 
• Bereavement counselling can help you make sense of your loss and how it impacts you.