Grief is how you feel after losing something or someone important to you. Everyone grieves differently, and there’s no right or wrong way to cope with loss. Your feelings are valid, no matter what you’re grieving, and it’s normal to experience grief at different points in life. Grief isn’t a mental health condition, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy to handle, and support is available when you need it.
Some common reasons people might experience grief include:
-
Losing a loved one: The death of a family member, friend, or pet can be incredibly difficult to deal with.
-
Changes in relationships: Breakups or changes in friendships can cause feelings of loss.
-
Moving or changing schools: Leaving behind familiar places and people can create a sense of loss.
-
Illness: If you or someone close to you is diagnosed with a serious illness, it can bring feelings of grief.
-
Major life changes: Changes like a parent separating, or even the loss of a job, can trigger grief.
Grief can be really hard, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here are some places you can turn for support:
-
Talk to someone you trust: A family member, friend, teacher, or school counsellor can provide emotional support when you’re feeling low.
-
Cruse Bereavement Care: Offers support to anyone dealing with grief and loss. You can find more information or talk to someone by visiting their website. Home – Cruse.
-
Child Bereavement UK: Provides specialised support for young people who are grieving. Visit their website for advice and resources. Home – Child Bereavement UK.
-
School Nurse: Your school nurse can listen to how you’re feeling and help direct you to further support if needed. Contact them through your school office.