In modern society, grief is often overlooked and unhealthy misconceptions about dealing with loss are perpetuated. When this happens, those who have experienced loss are often shamed into silent suffering. With grief counseling, however, many of these misconceptions can be brought to light, and your feelings can be processed in a healthy way. If you or a loved one has recently lost someone dear to you, here’s the truth about grief.

4 Mistaken Ideas About Grief

1. Grief & Mourning Are the Same

People often use the words “grief” and “mourning” interchangeably, but these are two distinct ideas. Grief is the natural feeling that comes with loss, while mourning is the outward expression of that grief. In grief counseling, you may be encouraged to express your emotions in a healthy way and in a safe environment.

2. The Stages of Grief Are Predictable

People like to make plans when they get sick. They sort out a treatment schedule and look forward to the day when they can feel better. Many tend to do the same thing with grief, labeling each new feeling as denial, bargaining, etc., until they reach the coveted “acceptance.” In reality, grief is not so predictable. You may jump around between these stages or feel all the emotions at once. Don’t gauge your progress or set up a timeline for your feelings. Just accept the emotions as they come to you.

3. You Just Need to Keep Your Chin Up

Some people are optimists and tend to think any difficulty can be overcome if you just stay positive. They may think that crying isn’t okay or that they’re showing weakness or selfishness if they fail in their responsibilities. However, crying can be a freeing expression of love and loss and is by no means a sign of weakness. Additionally, shedding a few tears can cleanse your body of the stress hormone cortisol.

4. You Will Recover Fully With Time

While it is possible to become reconciled to your grief and learn how to live a new life with the absence of the lost loved one, in grief counseling you’ll learn that sadness is something you feel for many years to come. With healthy processing, you can develop a relationship with grief that can shape you into a better, stronger person.

If you’ve experienced the loss of a loved one, we here at Abriola Parkview Funeral Home in Trumbull, CT, can help you through this difficult time. With our funeral planning service, we’ll walk you through preparing for a memorial, cremation, eulogies, and obituaries as you remember your loved one with dignity. Get in touch with us by calling (203) 373-1013, and visit our website to use our helpful grief counseling resources.