Navigating Loss: Finding Support Through Grief

Grief is a deep and normal response to losing something important. Everyone feels it at some point. Losing a loved one, a relationship, a job, or even a dream can cause grief. It brings many emotions as life changes.

When you lose something, your world can feel upside down. But the world around you goes on. It’s normal to feel very alone, like no one understands your pain. You might want to be with family and friends, or you might want to be alone to deal with your loss. Remember, there’s no “right” way to grieve. Your timeline may be different to that of others.

Loss can happen in many ways. Sometimes you can prepare for it. Other times it’s a shock. Even when you choose a change, like ending a relationship or career, you might feel a sense of loss. Examples of loss are: death of someone loved, breakups, big life changes, losing a job, miscarriage, loss of health or movement, moving countries, losing your sense of self, and retirement.
Grief affects everyone differently. You might feel it in many ways. Some common signs are worry, sleep changes (too little or too much), appetite changes, low energy, feeling numb or detached, trouble focusing, restlessness, guilt, deep sadness, anger, and sometimes using drugs or alcohol.

Different types of loss

Loss can take many forms. In some circumstances, you may have had time to prepare for a loss, while others can be unexpected. Sometimes a feeling of loss can be surprising if you chose to change something, for example ending a relationship or changing careers. Example of loss are:
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Relationship breakdown
  • Life transitions
  • Job loss or employment change
  • Miscarriage
  • Loss of mobility or physical health
  • Migration
  • Loss of identity
  • Retirement

Signs of grief and loss

Grief is a deeply personal experience so it can be felt or experienced in a variety of ways. Some symptoms that can accompany a loss are:
  • Anxiety or worry
  • Changes in sleep habits – little to no sleep/excessive sleep
  • Changes in appetite
  • Loss of energy
  • Numbness
  • Feeling detached
  • Loss of concentration
  • Restlessness
  • Guilt
  • Intense sadness
  • Anger
  • Substance use
When to seek professional help

There are no rules for when to get help for grief. Sometimes, grief stays with you. Sad feelings or upsetting thoughts can stick around. You might find that grief makes it hard to do everyday things. Or it might feel so strong you don’t know how to handle it. If this happens, talking to a professional can really help.

Counselling gives you a safe and caring place to talk about your loss and feelings. It can also give you ways to handle sad or guilty feelings and to deal with upsetting thoughts better. In the end, working with someone can help you accept your loss and find a way to move forward and live well.

How we can help

At the ACT of Living, we use a variety of evidence-based psychological therapies for grief counselling. These therapies include, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and existential and narrative psychology. Often a combination of techniques works best for our clients.
We can help you see unhelpful ways of thinking and challenge upsetting thoughts that often come after a loss. We also use ways to look at life events differently, build your confidence again, and make you feel less stressed. Our aim is to help you see your own strengths so you can build a good life for yourself.