Grief is the acute pain that accompanies loss. Because it is a reflection of what we love, it can feel all-encompassing. Grief is not limited to the loss of people, but when it follows the loss of a loved one, it may be compounded by feelings of guilt and confusion, especially if the relationship was a difficult one.
What Is Grief? (Plain Language Explanation)
Grief refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Grief
- Symptoms: The specific ways grief shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen grief
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When grief occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Grief
- Grief is far more common than most people realize
- Grief is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with grief see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about grief is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing grief, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.