According to Webster’s Dictionary, grief has a few different meanings. : deep and poignant distress caused by death or as if by bereavement, a cause of such suffering, trouble, annoying or playful criticism, or an unfortunate outcome.
It seems as if the word grief has many meanings but the same sentiment or opinion. It seems that although you might not have experienced death of a loved one (including pets), you can still experience grief over many different situations.
Grief shows up for many situations, loss of a friendship, loss of a romantic relationship, a deep sadness for what might have been, or sadness that your child, parent, or current life condition is not what you want. In any of these circumstances you can start to feel a sense of grief, trouble, suffering, or deep distress.
Grief, when coped with in a helpful way, is very natural and normal to experience. Grief can often let us know that we are human and it is okay to be sad or disturbed by something. It is when grief becomes stuck that sadness can become depression, anxiety becomes panic attacks or fear. This is our body’s way of letting us know that we have more work to be done. This is when coming to therapy is helpful.
Unpacking your grief and grievances and allowing you to truly mourn loss is the most beneficial gift you can give to yourself. This is where soul work comes in, this is where allowing this part of who you are and your experience to be seen in such a beautiful way and life becomes whole again or maybe for the first time.
