- Grief is unfortunately an emotion we all will experience in our lifetime. Though often associated with death, we can also grieve the loss of a job, a relationship, a lifestyle, or many other aspects of human existence. So how does one know when it is time to seek counseling for a loss?
Many people can work through grief assisted only by family and friends. Counseling or therapy is recommended for what we call ‘complicated grief.’ The Mayo Clinic has outlined these signs and symptoms of complicated grief: - Extreme focus on the loss and reminders of the loved one
- Intense longing or pining for the deceased
- Problems accepting the death
- Numbness or detachment
Preoccupation with your sorrow - Bitterness about your loss
- Inability to enjoy life
- Depression or deep sadness
- Trouble carrying out normal activities
- Feeling that life holds no meaning or purpose
- Irritability or agitation
- Lack of trust in others
How can counseling or therapy help you recover? A therapist is trained in grief and grieving. He or she is also trained to provide you with strategize and techniques to help ease the transition in your life. In extreme cases, a therapist can assist with trauma associated with the death.
Remember that children, even infants, experience grief as well. When considering what is best for your family, don’t forget that the smallest members need help processing the event as well.
The loss of a loved one does not have to remain painful for life. Don’t forget there are people who care and understand. They are waiting for you today.
“Grief does not change you…it reveals you.” John Green