Grief is a natural process we go through after the loss of a loved one, but it can be devastating. Friends and family may be able to offer support but sometimes it is helpful to talk with someone outside your immediate group.
You may be surprised by your thoughts, reactions and feelings. I have heard many people say they feel they are going mad. But they are all normal responses in grief.
We are all different and we all grieve differently. The way we grieve is influenced by our family background, culture, relationship with the loved one and much more besides. If you don’t cry it doesn’t mean you didn’t love the person any less than someone who cries.
If you are having difficulty managing your emotions, thoughts, or you are feeling stuck and you are finding it difficult to cope with life, you may find it helpful to talk with someone experienced in bereavement counselling.
In my own private practice and as a volunteer with Cruse I have counselled many people following a bereavement. Whether it is the loss of a partner, sibling, child, miscarriage, still birth or a friend I have found that bereavement counselling usually can help. This is what some people have said after coming to see me.
“I am so very grateful to you for all your hard work in helping me through the saddest and toughest time in my life and equipping me with so many invaluable ‘tools’ for coping with my farewell. I don’t know what I would have done without your visits – you have helped me more than words can say, to find peace, strength, clarity and the way forward again.”
“Thank you very much for your help and support.”
“Thank you for your help I feel so much stronger now and I no longer feel guilty. I can see a way forward.”