What is Bereavement?

Bereavement refers to intense feelings of gloom and sadness following the loss of a loved one. The passing of a loved one can be overwhelming and can lead to clinically recognised distress.

What are the symptoms of bereavement?

Psychological Symptoms of Bereavement include:

• Feelings of guilt and anger
• Feelings of disbelief and shock
• Intense sadness and major depression

Behavioural Symptoms of Bereavement include:

• Substance abuse
• Uncontrollable crying
• Unable to get out of bed

Physical Symptoms of Bereavement include:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Weight fluctuation
• Digestion problems

How to cope with bereavement:

Coming to terms with the loss of a loved one feels almost impossible and recognising that you need help with handling this loss is even harder. However, our practitioners have extensive experience with how to adequately deal with bereavement. Through providing you with unconditional support and listening to you in a non-judgemental environment, our practitioners can help you get through your bereavement. The most common treatment for coping and managing with bereavement is attending Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy works by encouraging you to distinguish any damaging, unconstructive and irrational thoughts. These thoughts impede normative processing of loss, so by replacing these with beneficial and rational beliefs, you become a step closer to managing your loss. Following thought replacements, the therapist will work to promote positive behaviours, which will bring you back to your normal routine. Together, these processes help you to accept the loss whilst cherishing your memories with your loved one.