Grief Is the Last Act of Love We Can Give

“Where there is deep grief, there was great love.”

Grief is one of the most profound experiences we can face. It is the last act of love we give to those we cared about deeply.

What Is Grief?

Grief is a natural and universal response to loss. It is the emotional suffering we experience when something important or someone we love is taken away. The pain of loss can often feel overwhelming and intense. It can bring a range of emotions, including shock, anger, disbelief, guilt, and profound sadness.

While the death of a loved one is one of the most intense causes of grief, it’s important to recognize that grief can arise from many types of loss, such as:

• Divorce or relationship breakup

• Loss of health

• Losing a job or retirement

• Miscarriage

• Death of a pet

• Serious illness of a loved one

• Loss of friendship

• Financial instability

• Loss of safety after trauma

The Waves of Grief

Grief often comes in waves. The emotions related to loss may ebb and flow over months or even years, often leaving us feeling powerless and overwhelmed. You might wonder if the pain will ever end or if your reactions are “normal.”

Grief can also affect your physical health, disrupting sleep, appetite, and concentration. Many people experience body aches, fatigue, or insomnia during this time.

The Grieving Process Is Unique

Grieving is a highly personal experience. There is no right or wrong way to grieve, so long as you allow yourself to go through the process. How you grieve depends on many factors such as:

• Your personality

• Coping skills

• The significance of the loss

• Your personal history and culture

• Life experiences

• Faith and beliefs

More significant and unexpected losses tend to lead to more intense grief.

There is no timeline for grief. Some people may start feeling better after weeks, while others need years. Healing is gradual, and it’s important to be patient and kind to yourself as your grief unfolds naturally.

How to Grieve Well

Although grief is inevitable, there are ways to support yourself through it:

1. Acknowledge Your Pain

It’s healthy and normal to grieve. Allow yourself to experience all emotions—anger, shock, sadness, guilt, loneliness—without judgment. You might find it helpful to set aside a private time each day or week to focus on your feelings. Avoiding or ignoring your pain only delays healing.

2. Seek Social Support

Talk to people who care about you. Sharing your feelings can help you process your grief. Ask family and friends to share stories and pictures. Some find comfort in faith or spiritual communities. Let others know you need listening, not advice.

3. Create Memories or Rituals

Consider starting a memory book, blog, or webpage to honor your loved one. Engage in meaningful activities like planting a tree or preparing a favorite meal. Maintaining daily routines can provide structure and a sense of security. Avoid big life changes immediately after a loss if possible.

4. Practice Self-Care

Support yourself physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Eat well, exercise gently (even a short walk helps), maintain good sleep habits, and avoid unhealthy coping like excessive caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine.

5. Get Professional Help When Needed

If grief feels unbearable or your emotions don’t lessen over time, a therapist can support you. Unprocessed grief can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, and relationship difficulties. Professional guidance helps you navigate these challenges safely.

A Personal Note

Having faced many losses in my own life, I see grief as a lifelong journey. It is especially hard when others rush you to “move on.” In my work as a therapist, I help clients understand that their emotions—no matter how intense or long-lasting—are normal. Together, we find ways to prevent getting stuck in grief and learn to cope with difficult feelings in healthy, compassionate ways.

If you or someone you know is struggling with grief, please know support is available. You don’t have to walk this path alone.

📩 Feel free to reach out to book a session or ask questions about how therapy can help you through your grief journey. https://www.shahrzadjamalicounselling.com