Grief is a reaction to any form of loss. It looks very different for everyone. Sometimes it creeps up on us when we least expect it. It can feel like a constant dull ache or come in waves and often never really “goes away.” Losing loved ones (including our pets), experiencing miscarriage or pregnancy termination, ending or shifting relationships, selling your home, and other losses can feel all-consuming.

Common symptoms of grief can be physical, emotional or social. They can look like:

• Headaches.
• Loss of appetite.
• Crying and sighing.
• Difficulty sleeping.
• Weakness.
• Fatigue.
• Self-isolation from social contact.
• Behaving in ways that are unusual for you.
• Feelings of sadness and yearning.
• Feelings of worry or anger.
• Feelings of frustration or guilt.
• Feeling detached from others.

Every grieving experience is different. A person may be able to continue their day-to-day routine after one loss, yet not be able to get out of bed after the loss of someone/something else. There’s no “right” way to grieve. 

If you are grieving, counselling can be a safe place to process your grief.