Greif Counselling

But what is grief counselling?

Grief counselling, also known as bereavement therapy, is a specialist service that offers knowledge and support to individuals, children and families who have experienced a loss.

But what causes grief?

Grief is an emotional response to loss. It may be triggered by the death of someone close – a loved family member or friend – or other bereavement experiences include:

1. Loss of a pet
2. Loss of a person who is missing
3. Infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth or abortion
4. Separation, divorce or a relationship breakdown
5. The adoption or relinquishment of children
6. Children leaving home
7. Unemployment, retrenchment or retirement
8. Loss of independence
9. Victim of a natural disaster or war

Grief is a natural human behaviour that results from our need for attachment. We will all experience grief at some point in our lives, from not being able to spend our day as we want to (have to go to work), to the traumatic loss of someone close. With each experience of loss we react differently and each individual has their own way of processing.

But why talk?

Talking to a trained professional can help sort out how you are feeling and reacting, and how you can move through the mourning process. A grief counsellor can give you that ear to listen, that shoulder to lean on, and can guide you along your journey. They may be able to share their own personal experiences and practical advice on how you can cope and move forward.

But where can I find grief counselling?

Grief counselling is available in most communities:

1. Your doctor
2. Counsellors or social workers
3. Hospitals and community health centres
4. Palliative care agencies
5. Volunteer groups
6. Church and religious organisations
7. Specialised telephone help lines, for example, Kids Help Line

But support from family and friends is vital.