Grief, the natural response to loss, is a profound emotional experience that individuals navigate when faced with the death of someone or something they deeply loved.
In this edition of NCN Health, Dr. Mark Constantine, a clinical psychologist and head of psychological services at the Mental Health Unit, sheds light on the intricacies of grief and its impact on individuals.
Grief manifests in various ways, encompassing a range of emotions from shock, anger, and disbelief to guilt and profound sadness. Dr. Constantine emphasizes that these reactions are normal responses to loss, with the intensity of grief directly linked to the significance of the loss.
Stages of Grief:
Dr. Constantine outlines different stages of grief, noting that denial often occurs initially, with individuals struggling to accept the reality of the loss.
He explains that lapses into denial may persist during the grieving process.
As grief progresses, individuals may encounter a state of depression, characterized by the struggle to bring closure to the incident and move forward.
Dr. Constantine highlights that acceptance is a crucial stage, signifying the acknowledgment that there is nothing more to be done but to learn from the experience, cherish memories, and move forward.
Factors Influencing Grieving Process:
The process of grieving is influenced by various factors, including personality, coping style, life experiences, faith, and the significance of the loss.
Dr. Constantine stresses the individualized nature of grief, recognizing that people navigate this emotional journey in unique ways.
Healing from Grief:
Healing from grief is a gradual process that cannot be rushed or forced.
There is no predetermined timetable for grieving, with some finding solace in weeks or months, while others may experience a more prolonged journey measured in years.
Dr. Constantine emphasizes the importance of patience, allowing oneself to naturally unfold in the grieving process, and eventually looking towards the future while coming to terms with the loss.
As the emotional journey of grief varies for each individual, understanding and supporting oneself through this process is crucial.
NCN Health encourages viewers to tune in on Thursday for another insightful edition.