Unresolved grief, loss, and trauma associated with grief and loss can have effects, physically, mentally and emotionally, and can effect past, present and future Health and Wellness. The process of recovery is an heroic journey – a process rather than an event.
SITUATIONS OF LOSS
Death
Suicide
Accident
Incapacitation
Murder
Pet dying
Terminal illness
Disasters
Disfigurement
War
Burglary
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Bankruptcy
Unemployment
Retrenchment
Retirement
Promotion
Separation
Divorce
Adoption
Fostering
Infertility |
Still Birth
Abortion
Premature birth
Miscarriage
Rape
Abuse
Migration
Aging
Teenage relationships
Anorexia |
WHAT LOSS FEELS LIKE
Shock
Numbness
Disbelief
Sadness
Guilt
Anger
Yearning for what is lost
GRIEF IS THE WAY WE ADAPT TO LOSS AND LEARN ACCEPTANCE AND REBUILDING
TYPES OF LOSS
Loss of Faith
Loss of Innocence
Loss of Security
Loss of Structure
Loss of Status
Loss of Health
Loss of Sense of Humour
Loss of Direction
Loss of Sexuality
Loss of Friends
Loss of Physical Contact
Loss of Dependence
Loss of Independence
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Loss of Simplicity
Loss of Stimulation
Loss of Appetite
Loss of Five Senses
Loss of Home
Loss of Possessions
Loss of Dignity
Loss of Self-respect
Loss of Ability to Communicate
Loss of Confidence
Loss of Control
Loss of Initiative
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Loss of Motivation
Loss of Hope
Loss of Dreams
Loss of Usefulness
Loss of Pride
Loss of Identity
Loss of Family
Loss of Financial Means
Loss of Privacy
Loss of Physical Mobility
Loss of Productivity
Loss of Intellect
Loss of Memory |
Loss is an inevitable aspect of life. It is about separation and bereavement.
The severity of loss and grief depends upon the significance of the loss, our history of loss, who we are, and what we do about it.
Grief and loss impacts on health and wellness so remember to take good care of yourself. Ask for help and support.
When we experience loss and grief we lose an attachment to someone or something dear, or both. Completing the grief journey is about adjusting to this new situation of loss of attachment, the recovery of meaning, and building a new purpose to living. The journey is a normal process, and while it may be at times difficult and painful, it is normal and not an illness. Along the journey are relapses, because some days are better than others, but none of this means that you are not recovering. Difficulties can occur at times of the anniversary of the loss.
So, perhaps consider some of these issues:
- Denial or shock – Stunned feelings. This is not happening to me. Emotional outbursts. Can’t think clearly. Confused.
Try not to make major life decisions. Find a good listener.
- Depression and anger – Searching/yearning. Sensitivity. Rage at yourself. Rage at others. Guilt. Talk it out with someone you trust. Seek professional help.
- Bargaining – Making promises to anyone if only circumstances will change. Grief is chaotic.
Seek care and support.
- Disorganisation and Disorientation – Sadness. Tearfulness. Self pity. Loneliness. Sleep, exercise and eating disturbances. Sexual disturbances. Spiritual disturbance.
Share your feelings. Get good support from close friends. Seek professional help. Work through grief and loss without pressure.
- Reorganisation – Encouragement to return to your previous self. Remembering with less pain. Sense of release. Peacefulness. Improved judgement.
Energy to complete the journey and get going again.
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