Navigating your grief: Chapter 3: As time goes on: If you are feeling “stuck”

The grief expert says

Carol speaks about grief over time and about grief work. (3:22)Video transcript

I realized that you can’t always be in acute grief.

I wondered if it was okay to see friends, watch a movie, or have a good time.

Some people experience a very high level of distress when grieving or feel stuck in their grief. Click the arrows to some signs that you may be “stuck.”

Distressing thoughts and behaviours, such as hopelessness, self-harm, increased substance use, or social isolation.

A continual and strong sense of yearning, sadness, and preoccupation with thoughts and memories of your loss.

Flashbacks, recurring nightmares, or extreme sleep disturbances.

What may help

Remember that grief does not move along a straight line but instead moves in spirals, allowing you time to adjust to changes.

Try to set small, achievable goals for yourself. These can be as small as emptying the dishwasher or stepping outside for a few minutes. Once you achieve these small goals, you can build on them and add new ones at your own pace. Consider keeping a record of your progress. This can help you to rebuild confidence and hope for the future.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stuck, or if close family or friends become worried about you, seek help from your healthcare provider or a professional who is trained and experienced in early pregnancy or perinatal loss, and who can help you to manage your distress.

Helpful Resources

Canadian Virtual Hospice - Provincial/Territorial Programs and Services