Grief & Loss

The lose of someone we love can cause a feeling of pain, referred to as grief. Everyone grieves differently. Grief is a normal response to loss and a natural part of the life cycle. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. It can often feel like an emotional roller coaster of highs and lows.

Grief is a process that takes time to heal from; there is no set timetable for how long it will last. Grief takes on different shapes, attitudes and behaviors. Teens experience grief in many different ways and not necessarily in the same order or at the same time.

Source: New Song, HOV.org

Symptoms of Grief

Denial

Anger

Lonliness

Lack of Focus

Sadness

Guilt

Numbness

Overachievement

The Grief Process

The grief process occurs in five stages that occur at different times for varying length of time depending on the individual:

  1. Shock and denial

  2. Pain and guilt

  3. Anger and bargaining

  4. Depression and loneliness

  5. Acceptance

Managing Grief Symptoms

It is okay to remember those you love. Even though they are not present in a physical form, they are a part of who you are and will always be with you.

Be as ready as possible for moments when you may be experiencing symptoms of grief and what support you may need. Here are some ideas to help remember your loved one and plan ahead:

  • Participate in the funeral/memorial services.

  • Talk about your loved ones with others.

  • Display pictures of them.

  • Create a photo album or memory book.

  • Maintain family traditions.

  • Play their favorite music.

  • Eat or prepare their favorite foods.

  • Set a place at the table for them.

  • Light a candle.

  • Talk to them.

  • Visit the cemetery.

  • Write about them—journal, poem, song, story.

  • Plant a tree.

  • Take a walk in nature.

  • Dedicate a donation to a charitable cause in their memory/name.

Grief is an individual journey. You will get through the pain and begin the healing process with the help of friends and family and the memories of your loved one.