Loss of a Loved One: Understanding and Healing

Experiencing the loss of a loved one is one of life's most profound challenges. Loss can take many forms: it can be the end of a relationship, a divorce, a family estrangement, or, perhaps most heart-wrenching of all, the death of someone dear. While each type of loss carries its own unique pain, the death of a loved one is irreversible. Unlike other forms of loss, there is no opportunity for reconciliation, no hope for a final conversation, or for things to be “made right.” The grief that follows can feel overwhelming and all-consuming, affecting you mentally, emotionally, and physically. Even though intellectually we understand that death is part of life, the shock, sadness, and sense of unfairness that accompany such a loss can feel unbearable.

Understanding the Grief Process

Grieving is a deeply personal journey, and it manifests differently for each individual. While the pain can feel isolating, it’s important to understand that what you’re experiencing is both normal and natural. It’s a process that takes time, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. It’s also important to recognize that grief can affect not only your emotions but your physical health, too. Below are some common signs and symptoms of extreme grief:

Emotional Symptoms of Extreme Grief

• Intense and persistent sadness
• Difficulty functioning in daily life
• Obsession with thoughts of the deceased
• Feeling as though you see your loved one in familiar places
• Disbelief or an inability to accept the death
• Preoccupation with thoughts of death
• Feelings of anger, guilt, or regret
• Avoidance of reminders of the deceased
• Emotional numbness or detachment
• Irritability or frustration
• Withdrawal from others
• Anxiety or panic
• Engaging in self-destructive behaviors (e.g., alcohol or substance use)

Physical Symptoms of Grief

• Loss of appetite or overeating
• Digestive problems
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or oversleeping)
• Physical aches or pains
• Frequent headaches
• Lowered immunity and frequent illness

When Should You Seek Professional Help?

Grief is a complex and evolving process, and it’s important to give yourself grace as you move through it. However, there are times when grief may become overwhelming, especially if the emotional and physical symptoms persist for weeks or months and begin to interfere with your ability to function. If your grief has escalated into depression, anxiety, or other serious mental health concerns, or if the death was particularly traumatic, it may be time to seek support. This is especially true if your grief is affecting your ability to eat, sleep, work, or maintain relationships. Additionally, if the relationship with the deceased was complicated or unhealthy, addressing these unresolved issues in therapy may help you heal more fully.

Treatment Options for Grief and Loss

There are several therapeutic approaches designed to help individuals process and heal from grief. A compassionate therapist will work with you to determine which method may best support your healing journey. Some common treatments include:

• Grief Work Therapy: A therapeutic approach that focuses on helping you understand and express the emotions related to your loss. The goal is to guide you through the grief process in a healthy, constructive way.
• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): This approach helps you accept the difficult emotions that come with grief and teaches you coping techniques to stay grounded in the present rather than getting lost in negative emotions.
• Person-Centered Therapy: A humanistic approach that places you at the center of the therapeutic process. It encourages self-exploration and personal insight, trusting that you have the capacity to understand and resolve your grief with the right support.
• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT): This approach helps individuals understand how emotions drive behavior, improving emotional awareness and connection in relationships while navigating the grief process.
• Faith-Based Therapy: For those who find strength in their spiritual beliefs, this therapy combines scientifically-based therapeutic techniques with an understanding of your faith, providing a compassionate and holistic approach to healing.

What to Expect from Grief Therapy

At Wholesome Psychology, our team of certified therapists specializes in grief and loss. We understand how difficult this time can be, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Therapy with us is not about “getting over” your grief, but about finding a way to move forward in a way that feels right for you. We offer a variety of therapeutic modalities to help you navigate your unique grief process and help you reconnect with your own strength and resilience. Whether you prefer in-person or remote therapy sessions, we are here to provide compassionate support in a way that works for you.

If you’re struggling with grief, we encourage you to take the first step toward healing. We offer a First Session 50% OFF to help you find the right therapist to meet your needs, allowing you to begin the healing process with confidence.

Contact us today to learn more or to schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.