Grief: Understanding the Journey of Loss and Healing
Grief is a deeply personal and often overwhelming response to loss. While most people associate grief with the death of a loved one, it can also arise after other significant losses—such as the end of a relationship, the loss of a job, a serious health diagnosis, or even major life transitions like moving or retirement. Whatever the source, grief is a natural and human experience, not something to "get over" but rather something to move through with time, support, and care.
At its core, grief is the emotional reaction to losing something or someone that mattered. It may show up as sadness, anger, guilt, numbness, confusion, or even relief. Some people cry often; others don’t cry at all. Some want to talk about their loss, while others prefer solitude. All of these reactions are valid. There’s no "right way" to grieve—only your way.
Many people expect grief to follow a neat, predictable path, but it rarely does. It can come in waves: some days may feel manageable, while others may be unexpectedly painful. These ups and downs are normal. What matters is recognizing your own process and giving yourself permission to feel what you feel without judgment.
Whether the loss happened recently or years ago, counseling can provide a safe and compassionate space to process emotions, explore meaning, and find new ways to cope. Grief doesn’t mean forgetting; it means learning to live with the loss in a way that honors both your pain and your resilience.
If you are grieving, here are a few supportive practices to consider:
Give yourself grace. Healing is not linear, and there is no timeline for grief.
Talk about it. Whether with a counselor, friend, or support group, sharing your experience can ease the burden.
Create space for your emotions. Journaling, art, music, or simply being still can help you process what you’re feeling.
Care for your body. Sleep, nutrition, and movement can help support emotional healing.
Ask for help. You don’t have to go through this alone. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
We’re here for you because we truly care. Visit www.aspencounselingservices.com or call / text 801-449-0017 to schedule.
*Contact your insurance provider to verify teletherapy benefits.
Mental health professionals, like our amazing therapists at Aspen Counseling Services, can help you gain insight into your feelings, develop coping strategies, and provide guidance as you navigate your mental health goals.