Healing After Loss: A Guide for Navigating Grief in All Its Forms

Grief is a universal experience, yet it often feels incredibly personal and isolating, and healing after loss can feel impossible. While many associate grief with the loss of a loved one, it can arise from any significant change. Grief is common after a relationship ends, a major health diagnosis, job loss, or even a shift in identity. At times, these less-recognised forms of loss can be especially difficult, as they may not be acknowledged by those around us.

Regardless of its source, grief deserves compassion and understanding. This guide is designed to offer practical, compassionate support for anyone navigating loss in any form.

Understanding the Many Faces of Grief

No two experiences of grief are the same. Some people find themselves overwhelmed by sadness or anger, while others feel numb, anxious, or even relieved. Physical symptoms, such as fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, and aches, are common. Grief can also affect memory and concentration, making everyday tasks feel daunting. These responses are all valid. Remember, there is no “right” way to grieve.

It’s important to acknowledge the full impact of your loss. Take time to reflect on what has changed and how it is affecting you. Journaling, creative projects, or simply allowing yourself to sit with your emotions can be powerful first steps. Your feelings are a natural response to loss, even if they are confusing or contradictory.

Common Responses to Loss

Emotional: Sadness, anger, anxiety, guilt, relief, numbness
Physical: Fatigue, sleep/appetite changes, aches and pains
Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, confusion
Behavioural: Withdrawing from loved ones, changes in routine

Remember: All Forms of Grief Are Valid

Grief can arise from any significant loss, not just death.
Non-death losses, such as divorce, chronic illness, redundancy, or a shift in identity, can be just as impactful and deserving of care.
There is no “hierarchy” of grief; all forms are valid.
Give yourself permission to feel whatever arises, without judgment.
There is no set timeline for healing.

Why Your Experience Matters

Each person’s grief is unique, shaped by their relationships, circumstances, and personal history. It’s normal for grief to ebb and flow, and for emotions to feel unpredictable or even contradictory.

Recognising your unique experience is important, but you don’t have to navigate healing after loss alone. Building support and finding connections can make the journey less isolating.

Building Support and Finding Connections

During times of grief, many people feel isolated or misunderstood. Reaching out can be difficult, but connection is a vital part of healing after loss. Trusted friends, family members, or community groups can offer a listening ear or a comforting presence. Sometimes, simply letting others know how they can help, whether that means practical support or quiet companionship, can make a difference.

For those who prefer shared experiences, support groups can foster a sense of belonging. Hearing from others who have faced similar challenges can reduce feelings of isolation and provide hope. If in-person gatherings feel overwhelming or inaccessible, online communities and resources are increasingly available and can offer meaningful connection from the comfort of home.

Practical Strategies for Healing After Loss

Acknowledge and Name Your Loss

Take time to reflect on what you have lost and how it has changed your life. Journaling or creative expression, such as writing, drawing, or creating a memory box, can help externalise and process complex emotions and support your healing after loss.

Build a Personal Support Network

Reach out to trusted friends, family, or community groups who can listen without judgment.
Consider joining a support group where shared experiences can foster connection and understanding.
If you feel comfortable, let those close to you know how they can best support you – sometimes people want to help but don’t know how.

Incorporate Gentle Structure Into Your Days

Maintain regular sleep, meal, and activity routines as much as possible.
Engage in gentle movement, such as walking or stretching, to support your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Allow yourself rest – grief is physically and mentally demanding.

Create Meaning and Ritual to support healing after loss

Honour your loss through personal rituals: lighting a candle, planting a tree, writing a letter, or celebrating important anniversaries in ways that feel right for you.
Creative projects (like memory books or legacy art) can be especially meaningful, for both adults and children.

Allow for Mixed Emotions

It’s common to feel conflicting emotions: sadness and relief, anger and gratitude, love and regret. All feelings are valid—try to observe them with curiosity and kindness.

Access Reliable Information and Resources

Seek out books, articles, and organisations that offer evidence-based guidance on grief and healing.
If you’re supporting a child or teen, age-appropriate resources and open conversations can help them feel less alone.

When Professional Support Can Help

While grief is a natural process, there are times when grief can feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to ask for help. Consider reaching out to a professional if you experience:

Persistent feelings of hopelessness or despair
Difficulty functioning in daily life
Thoughts of self-harm or feeling unsafe

Grief counsellors and end-of-life specialists are trained to provide a confidential, compassionate space to explore your emotions, learn coping strategies, and find meaning in your loss. Support is available both in-person and online, making it accessible even in challenging times.

How The Beach Haven is Helping Perth Communities Navigate Grief and Loss

The Beach Haven is a specialised grief and loss centre based in Joondalup, in Perth’s Northern Suburbs. Experienced grief counsellors at The Beach Haven provide expert and tailored support for those navigating life’s most difficult transitions.

Grief Counselling Services at The Beach Haven, Joondalup:

Support for all types of grief: From bereavement to non-death related losses such as divorce, job loss, major illness or injury, through to end-of-life support services, The Beach Haven provides unparalleled grief and loss expertise in Perth.
Individual and family counselling: Evidence-based, person-centred support for all forms of loss
Support groups: Safe, confidential space to share and connect with others
Creative healing: Art therapy, memory projects, and legacy work
End-of-life doula services: Compassionate guidance for individuals and families navigating terminal illness or major transitions

Local Resources for Support and Healing After Loss

The journey of healing is unique for everyone, but you don’t have to walk it alone. In Joondalup and the northern Perth suburbs, there are a range of resources available:

Connect with nature: Local parks and the Perth coastal walk can offer space for remembering and reflecting.
Explore community resources: Libraries, support groups, and local workshops may provide additional support and connection.
Online options: If leaving home feels too difficult, many support services, including grief counselling, are available online.

Final Thoughts

Healing after loss isn’t about “getting over it,” but about finding ways to move forward with your grief as part of your story. This process takes time, patience, and self-compassion. Whether you find comfort in connecting with others, engaging in creative projects, or seeking professional guidance, remember that support is available, and that healing, in your own way and time, is possible.

If you are seeking further resources or personalised support, know that help is available in your community and beyond.

About the Author

Tracy Rattray is the founder and lead practitioner at The Beach Haven, a specialised grief counselling and end-of-life support centre based in Joondalup, Western Australia.

Tracy holds a B.A. (Hons.) in Psychology, a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling, and is a certified end-of-life doula with experience in hospice settings in both Australia and the United States. She has received specialised grief training under internationally recognised expert David Kessler and is a member of the David Kessler Alumni group, with ongoing professional development through the Australian Counselling Association.

Tracy is dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based support for adults, children, and families navigating all forms of grief and loss. Her approach is client-centred, inclusive, and grounded in the belief that every person’s experience of loss is valid and deserving of care.

Healing After Loss: A Guide for Navigating Grief in All Its Forms