Grief

Grief is an emotional response to the loss of something or someone very close or important. It may result from the loss of a job, an object or a loved one. Grieving as a process helps us to come to terms with and adapt to our loss.

Several stages of grieving have been described, and it has been suggested that a person who does not go through all the stages of grieving may not have successfully dealt with their loss. The exact order of the stages may vary and the intensity of emotions at each stage may not always be the same. The stages are anger, denials, bargaining, guilt, depression and finally acceptance. The grieving period may take up to two years depending on the individual and their loss.

A person who is grieving may feel as though their world has come to an end and they may as though they cannot go on without their loved one, or as though they will never be able to replace their job. Warning signs for a person who is grieving are withdrawal, tearfulness, hopelessness, signs of physical, mental and emotional breakdown and a loss of interest in life. It is vital that grieving persons understand that they are not alone, they need lots of support and love in order to get them through their difficult times without complications such as depression and suicidal tendencies.

Eventually, the grieving person will be able to continue, and will realise that no matter how difficult, life does go on. This is a difficult decision to make as the grieving person may feel guilty that they are healthy/alive when their loved one is not. They may also feel they do not deserve to be in the position they are in and may turn to negative and self-abusive patterns. Physical complications may occur as a result of self-abusive habits (such as starvation or sleep deprivation) and as a result of this stress, digestive upsets and worsening of already existing illnesses may occur. It is vital that those around the grieving individual are aware of all the possible complications of grieving and guide the bereaved through the process of healing with love and compassion.

Treatment

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