Talking about loss Shakespeare wrote, "The Grief that does not speak, whispers the o'erfraught heart and bids it break."


Grief is a normal reaction to loss. Any loss could force us to redefine who we are, whether it is the result of a major move or life transition, job change, divorce, loss of our good health either due to normal aging process or serious illness, or the death of a loved one. The closer the attachment, the more profound may be the experience of grief.


Grief, while normal and necessary, is difficult. The length of time required for the grieving process varies with each individual.


The grieving person may show different emotions as he or she moves through different states of initial shock and denial, disorganization, and acceptance and resolution.


Expressions of Grief

Physical Symptoms and Sensations :

Exhaustion, loss of appetite, sleeplessness, tightness in the chest, breathlessness, muscle aches, lack of energy.


Emotional Responses :

Shock, numbness, apathy, anguish, denial, sadness, depression, resentment, guilt, despair, anger, relief, loneliness, regret, helplessness, and feeling inadequate.

Cognitive Responses :

Disbelief, confusion, preoccupation with the loss, lack of concentration, tendency to go over events leading to loss again and again.

Bereavement therapy is helpful in reducing anguish and distress associated with losing a loved one. One is able to openly discuss feelings, fears, anxieties related to living without the deceased.
There are many phases of bereavement and the guidance of a trained professional prevents long and complicated grief as well as depression.