Grief

Grief is a natural emotional response to loss or change of any kind. Some examples of loss can include the death of a loved one, the ending of an important relationship, or significant life changes. Many symptoms of grief overlap with symptoms of depression and anxiety including: 

• Sadness
• Insomnia or hypersomnia  
• Loss of interest or pleasure 
• Guilt  
• Anger  
• Anxiety  
• Difficulty concentrating 
• Changes in appetite
• Increased substance use 

There is no one way to experience grief and we often experience many different emotions and thoughts during the grieving process. However, there are five stages of grief that are commonly experienced: 

• Denial: This stage may include avoidance, confusion, shock, or fear and often helps individuals to numb the intensity of the situation.
• Anger: This stage can include anger , frustration, or anxiety regarding the loss.
• Bargaining: In this stage, individuals often struggle to find meaning and often find ways to gain control over the situation. During this stage, individuals may create “what if” or “if only” statements.
• Depression: Individuals during this stage may feel overwhelmed, helpless, or feel isolated.
• Acceptance: This stage does not mean you have moved past the loss, but means that you have accepted it and come to understand what it means in your life.