Bereavement and grief

Bereavement

Today the word bereavement is used to describe the period of grief and mourning we go through after someone close to us dies.

When someone you care about dies, it can be one of the most devastating times of your life. Your outlook can change, and things that once felt important may lose meaning.

Bereavement is about trying to accept what has happened, learning techniques to adjust to life without that person, and finding a place to keep their memory alive while you continue as best you can.

To help people explore their loss and strengthen their ability to cope more effectively with the death of a loved one, counselling can:

• Offer support and understanding of the grieving process
• Explore areas that could potentially prevent you from moving on
• Help resolve areas of conflict still remaining
• Help you adjust to and understand the new life ahead
• Address possible issues of depression or suicidal thoughts

Suicide grief

Any death is devastating. Grief after suicide can have a deeper and more complex emotional impact. Family and friends often experience confusing waves of guilt, anger, and self-blame.

After a death

After the death of a loved one your emotions and energy can be unpredictable. Mourning is a natural way we process the trauma of losing someone.

Many people describe grief like floating down a river: some days calm and gentle, other days powerful with undercurrents that pull you under. Therapy can help you find steadier ground.