Grief and Loss

There are many changes that occur in our lives that can trigger feelings of grief and loss. Most people go through more than one of these experiences in their lives. Learning to deal with it is often difficult because no one likes to experience negative emotions.

What is Grief?

Grief can be defined as intense emotion felt when someone experiences a loss that is significant. It is the process of working through the pain of loss, a functional necessity, not a weakness. There is no one "way" to grieve, the process described here is not all inclusive of the vast range of experiences after a loss. Nor does one have to go through every stage presented in this pamphlet.

Losses that Can Cause Grief

Typically people view significant loss as a death in the family or of a close friend, but there are many life changes and transitions, which produce feelings of loss and grief.

Relationship Changes

• Divorce or separation (loss for any family member)
• Marriage or commitment to someone
• Birth of a child or child leaving home
• Friendship changes

Life Changes

• Death of a spouse, family member, or friend
• Pregnancy or loss of a pregnancy

Health Changes

• Personal injury or illness
• Changes in family members' health

Job/School-related Change

• Gain or loss of a promotion or career opportunity
• New work conditions, hours, or responsibility
• Graduation
• Moving
• Retirement

Other Changes

• Loss of income or financial readjustment
• Changes in habits (such as quitting smoking)