Is There a Right Way to Grieve?

Understanding Grief as a Unique, Personal Journey

Grief is something we all face at some point in our lives. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, the end of a meaningful relationship, or a major life change, grief can feel overwhelming, confusing, painful, and all-consuming.

You might find yourself wondering: Am I grieving the right way? The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Grief is deeply personal, shaped by your connection to what you have lost, and it deserves patience, kindness, and compassion.

Embracing the Personal Nature of Grief

Grief does not follow a straight path. Some days, you may feel heavy with sorrow or anger. Other days, you might feel numb or surprisingly calm. This emotional ebb and flow is completely natural.

You may experience sadness, confusion, or even relief, sometimes all at once. Whatever you are feeling is valid. Grief looks different for everyone, and your process does not need to resemble anyone else’s. Allowing yourself to grieve in your own way is an essential step toward healing.

Letting Go of Grief “Rules”

Many of us have heard of the stages of grief, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance, but they do not always happen in order, and not everyone experiences them all.

There is also no set timeline. The idea that you should “move on” or “get over it” can feel like pressure. But grief does not have an expiration date. It takes the time it takes. Honoring your own pace is an act of self-compassion.

Gentle Ways to Support Yourself

If you are feeling overwhelmed by grief, here are a few ways to care for yourself:

• Give Yourself Permission
  Allow yourself to feel whatever comes up, without judgment or guilt. Emotions may come in waves, and that is okay.

• Reach Out for Support
  You do not have to go through this alone. Connect with people who can offer comfort, friends, family, or support groups.

• Express What You Feel
  Write, talk, draw, cry, whatever helps you release and process your emotions. Expression is part of healing.

When Therapy Can Help

Sometimes grief feels too heavy to carry alone. If it is lasting longer than expected, or if you feel stuck, therapy can offer a compassionate space to explore your experience.

Psychodynamic therapy, in particular, can be especially helpful. It invites deeper exploration into the emotional layers of loss, helping you understand what your grief is connected to, and what it stirs in you. Therapy is not about “getting over it”; it is about learning how to carry your loss in a way that fosters healing and growth.

Honoring Your Grief

Grief is not about forgetting or moving on. It is about finding a way to integrate your loss into your life in a meaningful way.

Every step forward, no matter how small, is a brave act of self-compassion and emotional honesty. Your grief journey may not look like anyone else’s, and that is perfectly okay. With time, support, and self-understanding, you can rediscover moments of hope, joy, and meaning.

You Do not Have to Do This Alone

Grief is difficult, messy, and at times, transformative. It can open a path to deeper insight and healing, but no one should have to walk it alone.

If you are struggling, know that help is available. Whether it is a trusted friend, a support group, or a therapist, reaching out is a powerful and courageous step.

There is hope, even in the deepest pain, and healing is possible.

Grieving is a process that touches every part of you, and you do not have to walk through it alone. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a place to make sense of what is happening, therapy can offer a path inward and forward. Reach out to schedule a free 20-minute consultation when you feel ready. I am here to walk with you.