Grief is a complex and deeply personal process by which we begin to understand and negotiate what the world will be like ‘after’. It involves existential questions that are part of our human experience, and it asks us to mourn the loss of the one we loved. It is a profound and unique time, and involves our entire being.

Grief affects each of us in different ways and there is no right or wrong way to be. You may feel many emotions at once, or you feel nothing at all. One good day may be followed by a terrible day.  You will probably go through different experiences as you adjust to a new way of living. Denial, anger, sadness, exhaustion, guilt and despair are all normal during grieving, but over time your feelings will slowly becoming less intense.

With any bereavement it is important to have someone to talk to who understands how you are feeling and what the loss has meant to you. Sometimes this will be a friend or family member; at other times it can be helpful to have distance. Sharing your grief helps, and I consider it a privilege to help.

 Losing a pet

Many of us share an intense bond with an animal, and it is very normal to mourn when you lose that companion. While some people may not understand such depth of feeling for a pet, you should never feel guilty or ashamed about your grief. Losing the unconditional love of an animal, perhaps your primary companion and one who rarely left your side, can be painfully intense.