Is My Grief Normal?

Grief is messy, personal, and often unpredictable.

Whether your loss was recent or years ago, whether it’s the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a major life change, you might be asking yourself: Is my grief normal? The answer is yes — whatever you’re feeling is valid.

How Grief Can Show Up

Grief doesn’t just mean sadness. It can appear in many forms:

  • Emotions: waves of sadness, anger, guilt, relief, or even moments of joy

  • Physical sensations: fatigue, headaches, muscle tension, nausea, or trouble sleeping

  • Thoughts: confusion, forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating

  • Behavior: withdrawing from friends, losing interest in activities, restlessness

  • Numbness or emptiness: feeling disconnected from yourself or the world

Grief comes in waves, often when you least expect it — and all of it is normal.

Common Myths About Grief

  • Myth: I should be over it by now.
    Reality: There’s no expiration date on grief. Feelings can persist or resurface years later.

  • Myth: I must feel sad all the time.
    Reality: Grief can include joy, relief, or humor. Feeling happy doesn’t mean you loved less.

  • Myth: If I’m not crying, I’m not grieving.
    Reality: Grief can be internal, subtle, or expressed in many ways — irritability, anxiety, or withdrawal are all normal.

What Influences How Grief Looks

Everyone experiences grief differently. Factors include:

  • Your relationship to what was lost

  • Past experiences of loss or trauma

  • Your coping skills and support system

  • Life stage and current stressors (perimenopause, career changes, caregiving, or other major transitions)

Even two people experiencing the same type of loss may grieve differently — and both experiences are valid.

When to Seek Support

Some grief can be managed on your own. Some benefits from guidance. Consider professional support if you notice:

  • Persistent feelings of hopelessness or despair

  • Difficulty functioning at work, home, or school

  • Avoiding life completely or isolating from others

  • Using substances or self-harm thoughts as coping

  • Feeling stuck, like grief is preventing you from living

Therapy can provide a safe, steady space to process grief, understand its meaning, and reconnect to yourself and life.

Gentle Tips for Coping With Grief

  • Name your feelings: Journaling or speaking aloud helps make sense of emotions

  • Move your body: Short walks, stretching, or gentle movement can release tension

  • Connect with others: Talk with trusted friends, family, or support groups

  • Honor rituals: Lighting a candle, keeping mementos, or making a memorial

  • Give yourself permission: There’s no “right way” or timeline for grief

You Are Not Alone

Your grief is unique, valid, and normal. You don’t have to navigate it alone. I provide a supportive, grounding space to explore your grief, reconnect to life, and find ways to move forward while honoring your experience.

Ready to talk?

You can schedule a free consultation or contact me to learn more about how I can support you through your grief journey.