Loss & Grief
Loss can be defined as the process of losing someone or something, tangible or intangible. Grief is the emotional response to loss. The more significant the loss, the more intensely one grieves. In most cases, grief is associated with the death of a loved one but it can also occur following a divorce, separation from a relationship, unemployment, shattered life dreams, destruction/ loss of housing, and having a health concern/ terminal illness amongst many others.
Grieving individuals experience sadness and a strong yearning for what they lost. Additionally, grief also affects someone physically, emotionally, and behaviorally. People experiencing grief may feel angry, helpless, guilty, numb, shocked, and may even deny the loss. Other times they may experience cognitive challenges like confusion, memory problems, poor concentration, and hallucinations. Physically, an individual may experience dizziness, unexplained headaches, fatigue, muscle weakness, weight loss or gain, numbness, stomach discomfort, heaviness in the chest or throat, and shortness of breath. Behaviors associated with grief include crying often, overdoing work or leisure activities, or engaging in substance abuse and risky behaviors.
Despite this, grief is a personal experience and can be experienced differently from person to person. If left unchecked, grief can lead to other mental disorders like anxiety and depression and physical illnesses in the long term. It is best to seek support when going through such a challenging period. If you are experiencing prolonged grief, unresolved grief, or otherwise need support, please reach out to us to discuss what would work best for you.
Wazo Therapy Team works with individuals to help them come to terms with their loss as well as identify, access, and process strong emotions around loss, find a healthy routine for coping, and begin to find a new rhythm for wellbeing.
Reading suggestions
References
- Appelbaum Paul, Yousif Lamyaa, 2022, American Psychiatric Association, Prolonged Grief Disorder, https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/prolonged-grief-disorder
- American Psychological Association Dictionary of Psychology, 2018, Grief, https://dictionary.apa.org/grief
- Heid Markham, 2024, Everyday Health, All About Grief: What Causes It, How to Cope With It, and When to Get Help. https://www.everydayhealth.com/emotional-health/grief/