Is there any right way of grieving?

At the time of the loss of a loved one, most religious and cultural practices and rituals support us by grieving together; community support helps in processing the pain, talking about feelings, about the loss, share thoughts that overwhelm us. 

However, there is no one or right way to grieve, some want to talk, some go through it silently. Everyone has different reactions to loss, and different needs during the grieving process.

What are the challenges of grieving?

Grieving allows people to come to terms with their loss by figuring out how to move forward in life, while still holding on to the memories of their loved one. However, some grief is more challenging because the entire life path changes with the loss.  For instance, a child losing their parent, or a parent losing their spouse, can impact life in many ways.

How long does it take for the grief to be processed?

Unfortunately, it has no set time frame and can last for months or years. Also, when the loss makes you feel guilty, or it was traumatic, very sudden, or after a prolonged illness, then grief may get complex and last longer. When it does not improve on its own with time, going to group or individual therapy helps.

How does therapy help to deal with grief?

When not processed well, grief and trauma may lead to complex mental health issues. Supportive therapy, helps one to process the pain with another non-judgemental professional. The goal is to remember the loss in a way that you would like to remember and not in intense pain.