Three common concerns about grief and therapy

Grief isn’t a linear process and it can be brought on by range of life experiences - including but not just the loss of a loved one. To make it more complex, people experience grief and can be triggered very differently.

As therapists, we there a few reoccurring concerns that have come up from clients.

1. Does asking for help mean that I am weak or broken?
   
   Of course not. This is not about you being inadequate or weak; this is about being human and experiencing a devastating change in your life. Grieving is absolutely natural. But it can be extremely difficult for family and friends to empathize with and help a person overcome grief, especially when their loss involves a child or a pregnancy. Grief therapy gives you the opportunity to talk to someone who understands your pain and can identify your internal strengths, offer you tangible coping skills, and help you find your own source of resilience.

2. I’m worried that grief and loss counseling will only make me feel worse.
   
   In the beginning, things may feel heavy. But you are giving yourself (or your child) the best chance to work through the pain so that repressed feelings, thoughts, and memories won’t keep you stuck or resurface at a later time. Some people are reluctant to open up for fear of being jarred emotionally. But our job is to make you feel better, not worse. So we will always move at a pace that feels comfortable and safe for you.

3. I feel like I should be over this by now. Is there something else going on?
   
   For some, the healing process can be hindered by underlying issues. For instance, a strained relationship with the deceased, a traumatic loss, or a personal history of loss all have the power to complicate or prolong grief. Whatever your concerns are, we can get to the root of them together. And while you may feel as though you should be over your loss by now, there is no set timetable for overcoming grief and loss. It’s a process you have to go through, and we’ll be there with you every step of the way.

At Thrive Postpartum, Couples and Family Therapy, we want to help you work through your grief. Our therapists are available seven days a week. To schedule an appointment, our team can be reached by text or phone at 224-698-9792. Alternatively you can also schedule an appointment online. We look forward to hearing from you.