Myths & Truths About Individual Therapy For Grief

Grief is very natural. When you lose somebody or something in your life, it is normal to feel grief. Of course, simply because something is normal does not meant that you shouldn't get help for some of your feelings. If you are thinking about individual counseling for grief, you may have heard some of the myths associated with counseling. Here's what you need to know.

Myth: You're Grieving Wrong

Many people are under the impression that there is a "right way" to grieve. Even if you do go to counseling, your therapist will tell you that you are not doing things wrong. You may be doing something unhealthy, but your feelings are not wrong.

Myth: You Should Be Normal By Now

The truth is that few people feel exactly the same after a tremendous loss. You may never feel normal again, and that's okay. Your therapist will show you that you do not need to feel the same way you did. You can still grieve in a healthy way.

Myth: You Can Ignore Your Pain

Many people think that if they can only ignore their own grief and pain, things will go back to "normal." Ignoring pain only allows it to fester. One day, those feelings will come out, and it could result in negative consequences. Therapy helps you prevent this from happening.

Myth: You Have to Be Strong

In the wake of a significant loss, you do not have to be anything. You don't have to be strong. It's completely okay to feel that you need to take time away from life, but individual therapy can help you develop strength and healthy ways of coping.

Myth: Crying Is the Only Way to Deal

Then, there are some people who think that if they are crying, they are dealing with the loss. They might think that people who do not cry openly are not dealing. Everybody expresses grief differently, and therapy can help you find a way for you to do this.

Myth: To Move On, You Must Forget

Many people are afraid to get treatment for grief because they are afraid it will cause them to forget their loved one. Therapy does not cause you to forget your loved one, and you can move forward in life without forgetting.

See a Therapist or Counselor

A counselor or therapist can help you develop healthy attitudes as you move forward. Grief cannot be cured, but it is possible that you can deal with your grief in a healthy manner. Look for a professional who provides individual therapy to get started.