Grief and Loss Is Not Just About the Death of a Loved One

When we hear the word grief, our minds often go straight to the loss of someone we love. And while the death of a loved one is one of the most recognized and painful forms of grief, it is not the only kind. Grief can follow many kinds of losses—the kind others might not see, or even the kind you didn’t expect to affect you so deeply. But your grief is real, and it deserves to be honored. Grief is a natural emotional response to loss.

Loss Can Show Up In Many Ways Beyond Death

The End of a Relationship

Whether it's through divorce, separation, or a deep friendship fading away, the loss of emotional connection can bring waves of sorrow, regret, and even identity confusion.

Loss of Health or Ability

A medical diagnosis, chronic illness, or physical limitations can lead to mourning the version of yourself you used to know—and the life you once imagined.

Loss of Identity or Role

Changes like retirement, job loss, infertility, or even children leaving home can shake your sense of purpose and belonging. When who you were no longer matches who you are, grief often follows.

Estrangement or Family Distance

Losing connection with a parent, sibling, or child—despite them still being alive—can feel just as painful and complicated as a physical loss.

Grieving What Never Was

Sometimes we grieve the life we hoped for, the dream that didn’t come true, or the version of the future that no longer exists.  

These kinds of grief often go unseen. Non-death-related grief is often misunderstood or dismissed. You might hear things like: “At least it wasn’t worse.” “You can always try again.” “Be grateful for what you have.” These well-meaning but minimizing responses can leave you feeling unseen, confused, or even ashamed of your grief. But grief doesn’t require permission. It only requires compassion. You Don’t Have to Just “Get Over It. There is no timeline for grief—especially when the loss isn’t something the world easily recognizes. You may still be figuring out what you lost, what it meant, and how to live with it. That’s okay.

Therapy can offer a safe, supportive space. I offer compassionate therapy for all types of grief, including the quiet, invisible kinds. Whenever you're ready, I'm here to listen.