Ep 21: Grief with Elaine Evans

Introduction:

Welcome to today's episode we welcome Elaine Evans of Third Place Therapy, and we embark on a journey through the complex landscape of grief. Join us as we explore the stages of grief, the profound impact of loss, and strategies for navigating the grieving process with compassion and resilience.

Understanding Grief:

Grief is a natural response to loss, encompassing a range of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Whether we experience the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or any significant change or transition, grief manifests in unique ways for each individual. It's important to recognize that grief is not a linear process but rather a deeply personal journey with its own ebbs and flows.

The Stages of Grief:

First introduced by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, the stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—provide a framework for understanding the various emotional states that individuals may experience while mourning a loss. While not everyone will go through each stage or in a prescribed order, these stages offer insight into the complexity of the grieving process.

We dive into the lesser known sixth stage of grief, with meaning making by David Kessler. We discuss the pros and cons of this aspect of grief and the difficulty of crossing over this last step

Navigating the Stages:

Each stage of grief presents its own challenges and opportunities for healing. From the initial shock and disbelief of denial to the eventual acceptance and integration of the loss, individuals may move through these stages at their own pace.

It's important to allow ourselves the time and space to experience each stage fully, acknowledging and honoring our emotions along the way.

Honoring the Healing Process:

Grief is a deeply personal and often transformative journey that requires patience, self-compassion, and support from others. By engaging in self-care practices, seeking professional help when needed, and connecting with loved ones, we can navigate the grieving process with resilience and grace. Remember, healing is not about forgetting or moving on but rather finding meaning and purpose in the midst of loss.

As we conclude today's episode, let us remember that grief is a natural and inevitable part of the human experience. By embracing the stages of grief and honoring the healing process, we can emerge from loss with newfound strength, wisdom, and compassion.

If you are looking for a way to explore the use of grief, check out our Gift of Emotions course on our FREE portal. There is a workbook for you to explore your own emotions and Lauren will walk you through the Gift each emotions brings.