Adulthood is a common time to experience grief and loss.

Loss is a part of life and experiencing grief is a natural part of the healing process. There are many reasons that we feel grief as adults, for example, the loss of a loved one, losing a pet, a break-up or divorce, a shift in physical or mental health, facing concepts such as death and dying, or even letting go of a life-long dream. We may even feel grief over transitions that we don’t commonly associate with grief and loss, including a change in employment, a geographical move, or a change in financial security. These experiences are extremely personal and are felt differently among individuals.

Some losses are anticipated, while others are sudden. Loss can be traumatic and there is often no way to prepare for or anticipate how you may react emotionally. The pain associated with loss can feel overwhelming, though it can be comforting to know that there are ways to learn to cope with your grief and begin healing.

Sometimes it can be hard to know how long it’s “normal” to feel grief. The length of grief is different for everyone and it is important to be patient with yourself as you experience your unique reactions. 

There are some common symptoms of grief. These can include:

• Feeling sad/depressed

• Difficulty sleeping or sleeping more than your normal

• Feeling irritable/angry

• Feeling guilty or remorseful

• Experiencing numbness or disbelief

• Feelings of anxiety or worry

• Feeling misunderstood or alone

• Feeling like you are “going crazy”

• Difficulty concentrating

• Low motivation/energy

Additionally, there are some common ways to cope with grief. These can include:

• Engaging in a grief ritual or ceremony, such as a funeral or a more unconventional ceremony that is personal to your experience

• Seek support from family and friends

• Meet with a psychologist or counselor

• Seek spiritual support

• Join a support group

• Focus on mindfulness skills

• Exercise

• Engage in social activities even when it feels difficult

• Allow yourself to feel the grief

• Journal

• Read books that feel connecting to your experience

• Be patient with yourself

• Anticipate potential triggers, dates, etc., that may exacerbate your grief

The counselors at Metta Psychology Group are able to provide you with support and practical skills during your grieving process. Enlisting the help of a psychologist can be key in healing from a loss, as you learn to find meaning and move through the stages of grief.