Grief & Loss Therapy & Support

 

Grief & Loss Counseling

Grief is not a problem to be solved or a task to be finished; it is a profound expression of love that has nowhere to go. If you are here, you are likely carrying a weight that feels too heavy for one person to bear. Whether your loss is fresh or a long-standing shadow, please know that there is no 'right' way to navigate this. This space is designed to honor your unique timeline and provide a quiet place to breathe, reflect, and begin to find your footing again.

 

When the Heart Aches, the Body Feels It

Grief is often described as an emotional experience, but for many, it is a physical one first. When we experience a profound loss, our body enters a state of high stress. This is not "all in your head"β€”it is a physiological response to a world that has shifted beneath your feet.

If you are experiencing any of the following, please know this is a normal part of the process:

1. "Grief Brain" (Cognitive Fog)

You may find it difficult to focus, finish a sentence, or remember where you put your keys. Your brain is using so much energy to process the emotional trauma that it has less "bandwidth" for everyday tasks.

2. The Heavy Heart & Chest Tightness

The phrase "broken heart" isn't just a metaphor. Many people feel a physical weight or tightness in their chest, or even shortness of breath. (Note: Always consult a doctor if you have concerns about your heart health).

3. Exhaustion & Sleep Disruptions

Grief is tiring. You may feel a bone-deep fatigue that sleep doesn't seem to fix, or you may find yourself wide awake at 3:00 AM with a racing mind.

4. Changes in Appetite & Digestion

"Butterflies" in the stomach, a total loss of appetite, or a sudden craving for "comfort" foods are all common. Your digestive system is highly sensitive to the stress hormones (like cortisol) that grief releases.

5. A Weakened Immune System

Grief can leave you more susceptible to colds, infections, or aches and pains. Your body is in a "survival mode," which can temporarily lower your natural defenses.