Grief and loss

Understanding the Grieving Process and When to Seek Support

Grief and loss are some of life’s most difficult emotional experiences. Whether you’re mourning the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or a significant life change, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. At The Three Seas Psychology, we provide compassionate support to help you navigate these painful moments and begin your journey toward healing.

What Is Grief?

Grief is a natural response to any form of loss. While we often associate grief with bereavement, it can also occur after:

• The death of a family member, friend, or pet

• A divorce, separation, or relationship breakdown

• Miscarriage, stillbirth, or fertility challenges

• Job loss, redundancy, or retirement

• Loss of financial independence or lifestyle

• Chronic illness or significant health changes

• Moving house or losing a sense of belonging

• The loss of a long-held goal or future dream

• Traumatic events that disrupt your sense of safety

Everyone experiences grief differently. It can be brief or prolonged, visible or silent, and may resurface over time. Understanding your emotions is the first step toward healing.

Signs and Symptoms of Grief

The emotional and physical symptoms of grief can vary, but often include:

• Intense sadness, crying, or emotional numbness

• Feelings of guilt, regret, or helplessness

• Anger, frustration, or fear about the future

• Trouble sleeping (insomnia), changes in appetite

• Physical symptoms such as fatigue, aches, nausea, or chest tightness

• Difficulty concentrating or staying motivated

These reactions are normal—but if they persist or interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek professional help.

How to Cope with Grief and Loss

There’s no single way to “get over” grief. Healing from loss is a personal journey that takes time, self-compassion, and support. You may find it helpful to:

• Talk to trusted friends or family members

• Express your emotions through writing, art, or movement

• Honour your loss through rituals, memory books, or time in nature

• Establish a routine to help stabilise your day-to-day life

• Avoid self-judgment—there is no “right” timeline for grieving

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or isolated, working with a psychologist can offer the space and guidance you need to process your loss.

Professional Grief Counselling in Melbourne

At The Three Seas Psychology, we offer evidence-based support for grief and loss. Our registered psychologists are trained to help individuals process bereavement, trauma-related grief, and complex emotional responses.

We offer flexible therapy options, including:

• In-person grief counselling at our Melbourne clinics

• Telehealth grief support (available Australia-wide)

• Phone consultations and remote therapy sessions

Whether you’re dealing with recent grief or unresolved loss from years past, we’re here to help you navigate your emotions and reclaim a sense of meaning.

Book an Appointment Today

You don’t have to face grief alone. Our compassionate team is here to support you with personalised, professional care.

Contact The Three Seas Psychology to speak with a qualified grief counsellor or book your first appointment.