Grief
Grief
The road of loss is full of challenges, emotions and discoveries about ourselves. As Jorge Bucay states:
“So begins the road of tears. That’s how: by bringing us in touch with what hurts. Because that’s how one enters this path: with this weight, with this burden.”
The word “contact”, central to the Gestalt therapeutic approach, describes the need to experience loss, to realise who we are by being left behind and to accept the range of our feelings. The grieving process involves saying goodbye, acknowledging the place of the deceased in our lives and reorganizing our daily lives.
Grief as a personal experience
Mourning is not a linear path. It is a process that stems from our experiences:
- How we came to know death and at what age.
- How our parents, grandparents, grandparents grieved.
- Our cultural and religious backgrounds.
- The informal rules of mourning “imposed” on us by previous generations.
These factors, combined with our personal needs, determine how we experience loss. Societal perceptions and stereotypes often influence our authentic expression of grief, leading to behaviours that do not meet our true needs.
The therapeutic process aims to respect the unique rhythm of each individual. The concept of acceptance does not mean that “everything is okay”. It means not denying reality, but finding a way to continue, even if the path is full of setbacks and difficulties.
Reflection:
“Many people don’t know or confuse the concept of acceptance, thinking it means that everything is okay. In reality, acceptance means ‘I don’t deny’. Grieving means moving forward at the pace we can: one step forward and three steps back.”
– N. Psimenatou
Moving on
Grief is an opportunity to learn to leave things behind, to stand firmly on our feet and to evolve.
“Let’s start again from the beginning. To leave things behind. To learn to operate differently, to learn not to depend on the other person’s gaze. These things help us to grow, to become who we are in the end.”
Jorge Bucay
FAQs
What is grief?
Grieving is the natural process that follows the loss of a loved one or a significant situation. It involves feelings, thoughts and behaviours that help us adjust to the new reality.
Is grief the same for everyone?
No. The way we experience grief depends on our personal history, our experiences, our culture, our religion and the relationships we had with the deceased.
Are there stages in grieving?
According to Kubler-Ross, there are five stages: denial, anger, negotiation, grief, acceptance. However, these stages are not linear and each person experiences them in their own way and at their own pace.
How long does the mourning last?
The length of the mourning period varies depending on the person, their relationship with the deceased and their personal circumstances. There is no “right” time for it to be completed.
How can psychotherapy help with grief?
Psychotherapy offers a safe environment to express your feelings, understand your needs and find ways to adapt to the new reality.
Is it normal to feel "back and forth" emotionally?
Yes, the grieving process is not linear. It is normal to feel like you are moving forward and then return to previous feelings or thoughts.
When should I ask for help?
If grief is having a strong impact on your daily life, causing severe depression or anxiety, or if you feel unable to move on, it may be helpful to seek professional help.
Contact
Contact form
Phone
+30 6987416614
info@synthesistherapy.gr
Address
24 Erythrou Stavrou,
177 78 – Tavros, Athens
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Monday – Friday: 10:00 – 21:00
Saturday: 11:00 – 21:00
