Making space for grief, while finding your way through what comes next
When someone you care about dies, your life changes, your world changes and you change.
You're not "just" grieving the person you lost.
You may be grieving a future you dreamed of, life plans you were looking forward to, a role or identity that no longer fits, your social circles, and even who you were before they died. Everyday routines and relationships can take on a different meaning or feel like they have no meaning at all. All of these pieces are part of grief, and are why grief can feel so all-encompassing.
Oh and the wild ride of emotions...anger, guilt, sadness, relief...the list goes on.
So often, too often, society, the people around us, our workplaces, and even sometimes health-care professionals expect grief to be temporary. And then, we're expected to pick up the pieces and return back to who we were before they died. Being surrounded by these expectations is not uncommon, but can feel very isolating.
Grief doesn’t follow a set timeline, and the passing of time doesn’t mean your grief dissapears. Your grief may become quieter for a while and then feel heavier again around a milestone such as going on a trip, an important date such as their birthday, or yours, or during a regular trip to the grocery store when you hear their favorite song over the speakers.
While grief changes with time, it very much sticks around. Yay, right? The grief becomes integrated into who you are. Sometimes you may start to feel this is positive or meaningful, and sometimes you may not. And however you feel, that's ok.
Counselling with me is a space to openly express your grief, whether it's been two weeks, two months, two years, or two decades, in a safe, non-judgemental virtual space. I can help you explore what you're experiencing and develop practical ways of coping with the challenges that grief can bring, while finding ways to navigate life after loss. It's not easy, but it's possible. I know. I really do.
Virtual counselling for adults throughout Alberta, whether you live in a town, city, or rural community. Coffee or tea, comfy clothes and pets welcome (and encouraged).
