25/04/2025
Loss
I feel like I need to share more about "GRIEF" for those suffering. There are many reasons to grieve (lower comments) and I have so many friends and family with loved ones passing, injuries, poor health and life disappointments. And... everyone reacts very differently to their stress/grief.
This poem seemed relevant...
You’re not falling apart. You’re grieving.
You’re not being dramatic. You’re grieving.
You’re not lost. You’re grieving.
You’re not broken. You’re grieving.
Grief doesn’t follow a script. It’s not neat, predictable, or easy.
It changes how you think, how you feel, how you move through the world.
If you feel tired....emotionally, mentally, physically...it’s not weakness. It’s the weight of love trying to find a place to go.
You’re not doing it wrong.
You’re doing the best you can.
And that’s enough.
Be gentle with yourself today. You’re carrying something sacred.
~ Dealing with Grief
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What is GRIEF
Grief is the natural emotional response to a significant loss, often associated with the death of a loved one. It can also arise from other losses, such as the end of a relationship, injury/loss of health, job loss, the loss of a pet, or other significant loss. Grief involves a wide range of emotions and can manifest physically as well as emotionally.
Grief is not a singular emotion but rather a complex experience that can include:
Intense sadness:
This is a common and often overwhelming feeling.
Shock and numbness:
The initial reaction to a loss can be a feeling of disbelief or inability to process the situation.
Denial:
This can be a temporary phase where the individual struggles to accept the loss.
Anger:
Anger can be directed at the deceased, at oneself, or even at the circumstances surrounding the loss.
Guilt:
This can involve feeling responsible for the loss or regret over past actions or words.
Bargaining:
This involves trying to make a deal to get the loss back or to change the situation.
Depression:
A sense of hopelessness and sadness can become overwhelming.
Acceptance:
While not the final stage, it represents a point of acknowledging the loss and starting to move forward.
Grief can also have physical manifestations, such as:
Fatigue: Loss can be physically draining.
Changes in appetite and sleep patterns: These are common responses to emotional distress.
Weakened immune system: Stress related to grief can make the body more vulnerable to illness.
It's important to remember that grief is a very personal experience, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Seeking support from friends, family, or a therapist can be helpful during any difficult time.
(Excerpts from a range of grief resource materials)
Be kind to everyone ❤️
If you need to reach out to anyone:
Lifeline Australia: 13 11 14
Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Emergency: 000
Confidential Helpline: 1800 737 732
Mensline: 1300 78 99 78
Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277
Virtual Psychologist: 0488 807 266