Grief: Losing a Loved One

Overview

The loss of someone special translates into many separate losses in a person's life. Multiple losses occur when a person loses:

A partner.

Loss of a partner usually also means the loss of a constant companion. Loss of a partner can also cause financial hardship, and sometimes a loss of standing or recognition within the community. It may help to stay connected with friends and family when grieving the loss of a partner.

A child.

Losing a child may cause parents to lose their sense of purpose, hope for the future, and connection to other people. For example, they may lose their connection to the parents of their child's friends. Parents may also lose a major joy in their lives. If parents grieve a miscarriage or child's death differently, they can become more distant from each another or argue more. Counseling may help couples work through their grief together.

A parent.

Whether you're an adult or a child, losing a parent can interfere with the ability to be truly connected to another person. Adults and children grieve in different ways. When grieving the loss of a parent, it may help to reach out to others for support.