Grief Psychologist

What is Grief?

Grief is the natural emotional response to loss. It can be long-lasting and intense, and may widely impact one’s life in many ways.

Bereavement is the state of loss. Grief is the reaction to loss.

Grief can occur as a result of:

• Death of a loved one

• Relationship breakdown/separation/divorce

• Loss of a job

• Loss of home/community

• Terminal illness of oneself or another

• Chronic illness/disability

• Miscarriage/abortion

• Major life change (e.g. children moving out of home)

• Physical incapacity (due to illness, injury, or disability)

• “Anticipatory grief” (when an expected loss is impending)

People deal with loss and its associated grief in different ways; some will want to talk about it, while others may withdraw. Likewise, the duration and intensity of the grieving process can differ dramatically depending on the individual, their personality and coping style, and the nature of the loss. It can dominate life for weeks, months, or even years. Some people manage to navigate grief effectively and carry on with their daily lives, even though the sense of loss remains. Others, however, need professional support.

Responses to Grief

1. Emotional:

• Sadness

• Shock

• Denial 

• Guilt/remorse

• Anxiety

• Anger

• Helplessness

• Loneliness/yearning

• Numbness

• Relief 

2. Cognitive:

• Preoccupation with the loss

• Vivid dreams/nightmares

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

• Difficulty concentrating

3. Physical/Behavioural:

• Sleep disturbances

• Fatigue 

• Muscle tension

• Tearfulness/crying

• Appetite changes

• Restlessness

• Social withdrawal

• Treasuring/hoarding items associated with the loss

• Avoidance of situations/places associated with the loss

4. Spiritual:

• Questioning life’s meaning

• Dramatic changes in one’s faith or philosophical outlook

How Can Our Grief Psychologist Help You?

Grieving is a challenging, ongoing process that takes time. Our compassionate, grief psychologist has the clinical training and practical experience to help you navigate loss and grief. Using specific evidence-based therapies, we tailor our treatments to our client’s needs. This may include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: identifies, challenges, and adjusts unhelpful thoughts and behaviours for a healthier, more positive pathway through the grief experience.

Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT): provides ways to more manageably “sit with” feelings and experiences of grief so they are not as overwhelming.

Mindfulness-Based Approaches: cultivates and integrates mindfulness and meditation practices that can help clients to more readily pay attention to and accept the thoughts, feelings, and physical sensations associated with grief in the present moment. 

Loss and grief can significantly impact your relationships, health, and ability to work and socialise. Know that you are not alone. Reach Psychology Clinical and Telehealth Services in Bayside/Hampton/Brighton is here to help you process your feelings and find a healthier, gentler path through grief so that you can thrive despite your loss and its impact on your life.

Reach out to us now.