Grief is a highly individual and complex emotional experience that manifests differently in each of us. People may express their grief through a variety of emotions and behaviours.

Some common ways grief can manifest include:

SADNESS AND TEARFULNESS

Grief can often involve a deep sense of sadness with memories that can leave many people tearful.

ANGER AND GUILT

People can often feel angry at their situation, at themselves around their loss. Through grief, they may also direct their anger at others.

Guilt around loss can be something individuals grapple with. Some individuals may also feel remorse, questioning if they should or could have done things differently. It’s easy to look back and ruminate over how things could have been.

ANXIETY AND FEAR

Grief may resurface at any time and can be a lifelong process throughout a person’s life. It can make you feel anxious about a lot of things you didn’t think were issues. The intensity and duration of grief can vary from person to person. It may depend on factors such as the individual’s support system, the nature of the loss and their previous experiences around grief.

GRIEF: A PROFOUND IMPACT

Grief can have a profound impact on mental and physical health. It is not uncommon for individuals experiencing grief to struggle with insomnia due to depression and anxiety, and other mental health challenges. Self-care should be a priority. Professional help from a counsellor or therapist can provide valuable support during the grieving process.

It is important to note, grief is not just limited to the loss of a loved one or pet. People can grieve the loss of a job; a relationship, their health, or any other significant transition or change in their life. Understanding and compassion are key when supporting someone through grief.

Read more by Ilana at www.thecpdiary.com

Read Ilana elsewhere on Open to Hope: https://www.opentohope.com/losing-a-loved-one-makes-you-grow-up/