What is bereavement?
There are many words and expressions that we connect with a loss. Words like grief and bereavement are often used when explaining the event and the sentiments that come along with that loss. Bereavement is defined as the period following a profound loss. Some bereavement descriptions are even more extensive, referring to the emotions we feel during this time. Losing a loved one can shake our world to its core. It’s hard to separate the experience from the powerful emotions that accompany it. The definition of bereavement is best explained as the period in which the most potent part of the grief process takes place. To define bereavement also means to allot it a designated amount of time, as with time and support, bereavements leaves.
What are the signs of bereavement?
Some of the sign and symptoms that manifest themselves physically during bereavement are:
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Fatigue
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Sleep disturbance
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Appetite changes
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Physical weakness
Stages of bereavement
There are five stages of bereavement or grief given below.
DENIAL
It’s reasonable to think, “this isn’t happening.” when you first hear about a loss. It is a defence mechanism and it is often accompanied by feelings of shock and numbness.
ANGER
As reality tends to set in, the pain of loss can manifest itself as frustration and helplessness. This can bring feelings of anger out of you. You might direct it toward other people.
BARGAINING
During the third stage of bereavement, you contemplate what you could’ve done to prevent the loss.
DEPRESSION
The fourth stage sets in as you begin to understand the loss and the effect of damage on your life. Signs of depression may include weeping, disturbance of sleep, and a loss of appetite.
How can psychotherapy and counselling help?
Psychotherapy for bereavement won’t solve all the problems related to your traumatic loss; although, the sessions with grief counselors do help to work through the stages of complicated bereavement. There are several goals of counseling and psychotherapy in bereavement. These are directed to ensure you have the following changes:
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talking freely about your loved one;
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identifying and dealing with trauma;
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accepting the reality of the loss;
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overcoming guilt;
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coping with life changes.
Some of the limitations of psychotherapy and counseling that should be kept in mind regarding bereavement are:
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it doesn’t make you forget the deceased;
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it doesn’t allow you to avoid the pain of loss;
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it doesn’t replace the essence of how you feel.
