Grief and loss can be overwhelming and heartbreaking. Everyone experiences grief differently, there is no right or wrong way to process the loss of someone or something important to you. Facing your loss can be difficult, which is why many experience denial initially. Learning more about grief can be helpful. 

Understanding Grief

Grief is complicated, though avoiding it can be problematic. Here are some important things to note about grief:

1. Denial is common with grief. Many find that their grief is delayed because of this, especially if a loss is unexpected. It is far more comfortable to deny reality when we experience a loss. 
2. Everyone grieves differently. This is true even for those experiencing the same loss. Everyone processes their feelings and emotions differently, so this is natural and part of the process. 
3. There isn’t a timeline for grief. Everyone processes loss in their own time, there’s no set limit though if we grieve for extended periods of time this can become problematic. 
4. Chronic grief can happen. When we experience symptoms or grieve for extended periods of time, grief can become complicated and leave us susceptible to other conditions such as depression and anxiety. 
5. Grief can be delayed. Delayed grief is likely to happen to people who regard showing grief as a sign of weakness. This may also happen if you feel you can’t rely on others, causing you to feel you need to put your feelings aside and “push through”. 
6. Grief is experienced in relation to big changes as well. Grief is not only when we lose someone close to us. It can be experienced when we have major life changes, or we lose something important to us such as the loss of a job or business. Life changes can include divorce, retirement, moving, getting sober etc.
7. Counseling can help. Finding a therapist that is a good fit for you can make a huge difference in your grieving process. Therapy can provide a safe space for you to process your feelings and find acceptance. 

Recognizing the Need for Professional Assistance

Facing your grief all alone can be scary, but you don’t have to do this by yourself. Carolina Counseling Services – Sanford, NC Office contracts with caring therapists who can help you process your loss and begin to move forward. You deserve support as you grieve. 

The goal is never to forget what you have lost, rather find ways to move forward. Call CCS today to get started.

Related Articles: 

• Grieving and Healing as a Family
• Releasing Yourself from Grief and Trauma with a Counselor
• Getting Help to Bounce Back from Grief and Trauma
• The Healthy Way to Help Children Process Grief
• Staying Strong As a Couple in Times of Grief
• Protecting Your Marriage Against the Impact of Grief
• Easing Teen Grief with Counseling
• A Child in Grief: Bringing Back The Smile
• Putting an End to Grief