Grief Counseling
Grief Counseling In New Jersey
Grief is the emotional response to any loss, perhaps of a loved one due to death or divorce, but also the loss of a job, a pet, financial stability, or safety after trauma. Feelings of grief can be overwhelming, and it can be hard to know how to manage and overcome these emotions. It is essential to have patience with yourself and others during this process, as it is a healthy part of healing. A therapist can assist if you have trouble coping independently or know someone who could use extra support.
There is no orderly process of passing through the anger, denial, and acceptance stages. Everyone experiences loss differently based on their personality, culture, and beliefs, among many other factors.
Common symptoms of grief include:
- Shock and disbelief: feeling numb about the event, having trouble believing it happened, denying it, or expecting to see the person you lost suddenly.
- Sadness: crying or having feelings of emptiness, despair, yearning, or loneliness.
- Guilt: regret over things unsaid or undone, feeling responsible for the death or the event, or shame from feeling relieved by a person’s passing.
- Anger: blaming someone for injustice.
- Fear: feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and insecurity, or having panic attacks.
- Physical symptoms: fatigue, nausea, weight loss or gain, aches and pains, and insomnia.
- Coping with Grief and Loss
An essential part of healing is knowing that you are not alone. Seek support from your friends, family, or faith, or join a bereavement support group. Sharing your loss can make the grieving process more accessible. Remember to care for yourself; eat, sleep, and exercise even when stressed or tired. A healthy alternative is to seek the help of a professional therapist. A therapist can help you work through your intense emotions in a safe environment.