Dealing with loss can be devastating and confusing; there is no right or wrong way to respond to a loss. How we react to loss depends on many factors including the type of loss, our previous experiences of loss, our personal circumstances, cultural background and religious beliefs, our age and personality, for example. Dealing with loss can be especially difficult when you or someone you know is also experiencing mental health difficulties.
Types of loss
When people think of grief or loss they most immediately think of the loss of a loved one, however, there are many different experiences that bring about the same grief response. Some of these are listed below:
- Divorce or relationship breakup
- Loss of health
- Losing a job
- Loss of financial stability
- Miscarriage or stillbirth
- Retirement
- Death of a pet
- Loss of a cherished dream
- A loved one’s serious illness
- Loss of a friendship
- Loss of safety/security after a trauma
- Selling the family home
It is natural to go through a range of physical and emotional processes as we gradually come to terms with the loss. You can explore this further in our ‘Dealing with Loss’ course over on our e-learning site.