Grief

Millions of individuals and families will experience loss today. Their hearts will break and dreams for the future will shatter because someone they love dies. Others will face the devastation of traumatic injury, diagnosis of a terminal illness, loss of income or separation or divorce. The circumstances may differ, but the shared theme is an "ending." The need to grieve these endings is imperative to resuming a joyful, meaningful life.

Each person is unique. The stages of grief and the range of emotions they go through following a loss will vary. The process can include shock, anger, denial and feelings of sadness, guilt, confusion, despair and disbelief. There is no predictable order or set timeframe that these stages or emotions occur. It takes months for a sense of disbelief to diminish - in fact, months can pass before the realization that life will never be the same again begins to settle in.

In an attempt to make sense of what has happened, those who have suffered a loss will search for answers and understanding. In doing so, they are seeking the assurance of survival. They are looking for hope.

Anticipation of a brighter tomorrow can only come when we understand what loss is and the impact it has on our life. This awareness will lead to reflection and build our capacity to receive support. By using a blend of awareness, refection and support, we can learn to integrate loss into our life and move forward. When that happens, life becomes meaningful and enjoyable again.