Understanding grief and loss

Grief is a natural and normal part of dying and death, and it often starts earlier than we think. It is normal to experience grief from the time of diagnosis – grieving the life and plans you hoped to have. Emotions like anger, resentment and frustration can be normal responses, particularly when time is short and trying to manage the tasks at hand seems overwhelming.

But these emotions can often be addressed. You can feel supported through talking openly and compassionately with a trusted person, or a professional, about any concerns you may have – and talk through possible self-care strategies you can implement.

Acceptance and compassion can encourage you to face whatever feelings might arise with gentleness and with wisdom. You may also experience feelings of regret or sadness from past actions. Talking with a spiritual care practitioner may support you in finding resolution or acceptance and understanding that grief can arise for many different reasons. Grief doesn’t have a timeline, and it is important to know there is no right or wrong way to grieve.

We can help you prepare for, and make sense of, what you are experiencing now and what you may experience in the days or months to come. Through our Karuna Plus service, we offer support to help you adjust to profound changes in all areas of your life—from relationships to finances—and to find meaning in what will become your new normal.