We live with grief and loss throughout the year, but why do certain times of the year or anniversaries trigger such visceral responses in our bodies? This question and more will be explored in this blog post on grief and loss.
Grief and Loss
Grief and loss can occur because of many different changes in life. A number of examples that can create grief and loss may include:
- Loss of a loved one
- Unexpected loss of a pet
- Change in ability from a car accident
- Loss of identity due to a trauma experience
- Watching a loved one age with a neurodegenerative illness
How People Mourn
Every person, society, and culture have different ways of morning and coping with grief and loss. It is important to remember that no one person is the same and to do what feels right to you to bring healing to your life is the most important.
Anniversaries and the holidays are yearly patterns that occur throughout our lives. With this, our memories of someone we lost or past events naturally arise. So, do the emotions associated with these memories.
Additionally, the grief and loss we feel is a testament of the connection we once had to the thing we lost. If we did not have this level of connection with the person or past event then we would most likely not have an emotional connection to them/it
Does the Pain Ever Go Away?
Over time, it is likely the visceral pain responses will decrease in intensity – although it may take time. These sensations and pain can be avoided with the use of substances or by trying to stay so busy that you don’t have time to reflect. However, this will come at a cost. Typically, when we numb out past events, we will likely numb out other areas of our current lives.
Despite the discomfort, I’d encourage you to lean into the emotions and sensations that arise. Noticing and feeling the emotions and sensations, may be uncomfortable, yet it can also help you learn about yourself and connect you back to your body. As the calendar years turn over, memories of past events and loss will naturally arise – it is a part of life and connection.
Can Individual Therapy in Wisconsin Help with Grief and Loss?
Grief and loss therapy takes into account the nuances of having a severed relationship with someone or something. Working with a therapist who understands this and is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can facilitate the healing of dysfunctional aspects of grief and loss, for example, guilt, shame, and the ‘what ifs’ of past events.
Grief and Loss is A Part of Life
If you or someone you know struggles with grief and loss, they may benefit from individual psychotherapy to support them throughout their healing process. Click here, or call us at 720.295.6703, to see how one-on-one therapy can be a benefit.
