Process loss, find peace, and heal at your own pace.
Losing a loved one or experiencing a major loss can leave an unbearable void. Sowka Psychotherapy & Consultations specializes in grief & loss healing in Tavares, Florida, helping you navigate the complex emotions of grief. Our therapy provides a space to honor memories, process pain, and adjust to life after loss. Grief is not something to “get over”—it’s something to move through with care and support. Healing looks different for everyone, and you don’t have to do it alone.
The Stages of Grief
Grief is a complex emotional response to loss, and understanding the stages can help individuals navigate their emotions more effectively. Here are the five stages of grief, according to Kübler-Ross:
- Denial: A state of shock or disbelief
- Anger: Feeling frustrated or helpless
- Bargaining: Trying to make deals or promises to reverse the loss
- Depression: Experiencing deep sadness or sorrow
- Acceptance: Coming to terms with the loss and finding a new sense of peace
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I feel so disconnected after a loss?
It’s common to feel emotionally numb or disconnected after a loss. The shock and sadness can be so overwhelming that your mind and body may shut down or distance themselves from the pain. This emotional numbness is a way for your mind to protect itself from being overwhelmed. Over time, this feeling may ease, and you might find that you can reconnect with your emotions and the world around you.
Is it normal to feel relief after a loss?
Yes, it’s completely normal to feel relief after a loss, especially if the person you lost had been suffering or if the relationship was complicated. While grief is typically associated with sadness, relief can be an emotional response that sometimes coexists with other emotions like guilt or confusion. You might feel relief if the person was in pain or if you had been dealing with an ongoing, stressful caregiving situation. Allow yourself to feel the full range of emotions and seek support if any guilt or confusion arises from these mixed feelings.
How can I cope with grief if I don’t have a strong support system?
Grieving without a strong support system can be especially challenging, but there are ways to navigate this difficult time. Journaling, engaging in creative outlets, or finding solace in nature can help process your emotions. You might also consider joining a grief support group, either in-person or online, where you can connect with others who are going through similar experiences. Many therapists specialize in grief counseling and can provide valuable guidance in helping you heal. Remember that seeking support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
What should I do if I’m grieving but others expect me to “move on”?
Grief can be a long and unpredictable process, and while others may try to rush you through it, it’s important to honor your own timeline. Everyone processes loss differently, and you may need more time to heal than others expect. It’s okay to set boundaries and communicate that you need space to grieve. Don’t feel pressured to return to “normal” until you feel ready.
Is it possible to feel joy again after a loss?
Yes, it is possible to experience joy again after a loss, though it may take time. Initially, grief can be all-consuming, making it hard to imagine feeling happiness again. As you continue to heal and process the emotions surrounding your loss, you may start to notice moments of joy returning—whether it’s through activities, relationships, or simple pleasures. It’s important to allow yourself to experience these moments without guilt. Finding a balance between grief and joy is part of the healing journey.
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
Struggling with stress, anxiety, or life’s challenges? Sowka Psychotherapy & Consultation is here to help you find balance. Contact us today to start your journey toward healing.
