Losing someone you love changes everything. Whether it's a family member, a close friend, or even a pet, grief shows up in ways we don’t always expect. It can feel heavy, confusing, and deeply personal, because it is.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the common stages of grief and offer simple ways to cope as you begin to heal. For more helpful resources, visit our Grief Support Articles.
Grief Looks Different for Everyone
Grief doesn’t follow a set timeline. You might feel okay one day and overwhelmed the next — and that’s completely normal. The idea of “moving on” can feel impossible, but over time, you learn to move with the loss instead.
The five stages of grief, as introduced by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, include:
- Denial – Feeling numb or in shock
- Anger – Frustration, blame, or emotional outbursts
- Bargaining – “What if” thoughts or guilt
- Depression – Deep sadness, fatigue, or disconnection
- Acceptance – Beginning to adjust and find meaning again
You may not go through all of these or in this order, and that’s okay. Grief is personal.
Common Emotions You May Feel
- Sadness or emotional numbness
- Guilt or regret
- Irritability or mood swings
- Exhaustion or changes in sleep
- Difficulty focusing
- Feeling isolated even around others
These feelings can come in waves. Let yourself feel them. Healing begins when we stop trying to push pain away.
How to Cope with Grief
There’s no shortcut, but there are healthy ways to support yourself during this time:
- Be kind to yourself. Don’t rush the process or judge your emotions.
- Reach out. Talk to someone you trust — a friend, a support group, or a counselor.
- Honor your loved one. Light a candle, write them a letter, or keep a meaningful photo close.
- Keep a routine. Small daily habits; eating, resting, walking, can offer stability.
- Write it down. Journaling can help you process what you're going through.
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Allow joy, when it comes. It doesn’t mean you’ve forgotten, it means you're still living.
Supporting Someone Who's Grieving
If someone you care about is grieving, show up. You don’t have to fix anything, just be present.
Say things like:
“I’m here for you.”
“I don’t know what to say, but I’m thinking of you.”
Avoid:
“At least they’re in a better place.”
“Everything happens for a reason.”
Sometimes, quiet companionship says more than words.
When to Seek Extra Support
If grief is making it hard to function for a long time, if you feel stuck, hopeless, or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. There’s strength in asking for support.
Grief is a reflection of how deeply we loved. The sadness may linger, but so can the memories, the meaning, and the quiet hope that life can feel full again, one day at a time.