Often when we think of the grief cycle, we think of the death of a loved one. Individuals grieve differently and for different types of losses. These could include the death of a loved one or a friend; the loss of a pet; the end of a relationship; job loss; etc.

The average grief cycle can last about two years, some less…most more. Generally people will stop asking how you are and will expect you to return to some degree of “normalcy” after two weeks. However, this is not realistic…grief is a process and it is a personal journey towards peace; understanding and healing.

At the Family Counseling Center we come along side those in experiencing grief to assist them in the healing process with the goal of helping the individual through the grief cycle. Grief counseling is offered individually to help those grieving deal with specific losses. We also provide specialized traumatic grief to both children and adults who have suffered a loss due to unique circumstances.

Behavioral changes that may be addressed:

• Atypical disorganization
• Exhaustion or lack of energy
• Loss of focus
• Sleep interruption
• Appetite irregularities
• Obsession about the loss.

Feelings which might be experience:

• Sadness
• Anxiety
• Anger
• Abandonment
• Loneliness
• Guilt
• Relief
• Isolation
• Disorientation
• Lack of feeling… “the blahs”

Grief counseling can include:

• Accepting the loss
• Adjusting to life after the loss
• Coping with the changes in oneself
• Coping with one’s personal social environment after the loss.