Grief is a normal part of life.

Breathe! Hold on to the breath! Exhale!

Grief is a normal part of life. Grief is the normal, healthy response to loss. Loss is not only the death of a loved one, but can include the loss of health, of a relationship or even some change that has taken place in your life.

Grief is part of the healing process. It is what will help you come to terms with your loss. Grief is not something to get over – it is something to understands and adjust to. It cannot be avoided; you must live through it and experience it. Accepting and feeling your grief will allow you to resolve and grasp the loss into your life. It will help you to embrace the memories of your loved one without the pain of the loss.

The process of dealing with grief is highly individual. It really depends on the nature of the relationship, the circumstances surrounding the death, your emotional support system and your cultural and religious background. Most of the more intense feeling of grief will soften in the months to come, but you may experience emotional highs and lows for a long time.

Grief can come in many different emotions such as anxiety, insecurity, anger, guilt, confusion, fear, depression, relief or many different ones. Acknowledging and expressing your feelings is an important step in the grieving process. Your feelings are not right or wrong – they are yours. These feelings may be strong and could surprise you. This is normal and your feelings will soften over time. Healing is painful but you will feel better as you process your grief.

Click here this factsheet.