Written by Yvonne Hehir - https://www.bacp.co.uk/therapists/407815/yvonne-hehir/
Grief is often associated with the death of someone we love, but loss can take many forms. We can grieve the end of a relationship, changes to our health or identity, a significant life transition, or a future we had imagined but will no longer experience.
Grief can be difficult to make sense of, particularly when the loss is complicated, ongoing, or not something other people recognise as a loss. Sometimes there may be no clear ending, and you may find yourself questioning whether you are even allowed to grieve.
Counselling can provide a safe and supportive space to talk openly about what has happened and what the loss means to you, without having to minimise your feelings or worry about how they might be perceived by others.
A counsellor can help you explore the emotions that can come with grief and make sense of how your experience is affecting you. Your feelings may change over time, particularly when the loss is ongoing or involves changes to your health, relationships or circumstances.
Counselling isn't about telling you how you should grieve or giving you a timeline for when you should feel better. It can offer an opportunity to understand your experience, recognise what has been lost, and explore what you need as you adjust to the changes in your life.
You don't have to wait until your grief feels overwhelming before seeking support. Sometimes having somewhere to talk, without judgement, can be an important first step.
Some losses are loud, some are quiet, some are recognised by the world, while others are carried entirely in private, but they are still losses.