Therapies for Grief & Bereavement in Southend-on-Sea, Essex

We offer therapies for grief and bereavement in Southend-on-Sea, Essex at The Body Matters. Therapy for these is available from our clinic based in Leigh-on-Sea, in Southend-on-Sea, Essex. We also offer telephone & online support. Call us on 01702 714968 for more information.

What is grief?

Grief is a natural response to loss, often associated with the death of a loved one, but it can also be triggered by other significant losses such as the end of a relationship or the loss of a job. Sometimes we may feel grief, but feel it is a grief that is less socially acceptable to express than in other cases. Yet such losses will be felt as deeply as any other loss.

What are the signs of grief?

The signs of grief can vary widely but often include intense sadness, crying, and feelings of emptiness or loss. Other emotional responses may include anger, guilt, anxiety, or a sense of numbness. Physical symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, or restlessness are also common. Some people may withdraw socially, while others may seek increased support. Grief can also impact cognitive functions, leading to difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

What are the types of grief?

Whilst for some the death of a pet, for instance, might be seen as a first-world problem, most people would recognise that pets are an important part of the lives of the individuals and families that have them. They are in a sense ‘one of us’.

The five stages of grief are denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Whilst this may be a natural process that people work through, there are aspects of losses that can make the process of recovery more difficult and involve the bereaved person becoming ‘stuck’.

Death of one’s child, a death by suicide, of a spouse, parent, sibling or friend or a loss during childhood might be examples here – and other factors such as the nature of the death and one’s relationship with the deceased can all make the ‘grief-work’ of mourning more problematic.

Coming back to the range of losses that we can experience, it is perhaps impossible to list all of these.

How long does grief typically last?

Grief is a deeply personal experience with no set timeline. The duration varies depending on the individual and the nature of the loss. While acute grief may subside over weeks or months, some levels of grief may persist for years, often becoming less intense over time. People may experience waves of grief triggered by memories or anniversaries. It's important to allow oneself to grieve naturally and seek support when needed.

Can grief affect physical health?

Yes, grief can affect physical health in various ways. It can lead to changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels. Chronic stress from grief may weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illness. Grief can also cause physical symptoms such as headaches, muscle tension, or digestive issues. Additionally, prolonged grief can contribute to an increased risk of heart problems and other chronic health issues. Managing stress and seeking support can help mitigate these effects.

Where can I find help for grief and bereavement?

Whilst we will all have things to grieve, there are things that we can do to look after ourselves. Getting exercise, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting enough rest and sleep are all important (suggestions for many of these can be found in The Body Matters blogs!) Alcohol consumption could be limited if it is excessive and now would definitely be a good time to stop smoking. There are various apps for mindfulness and relaxation and of course, professional help is still available thanks to the internet.

Below you will find a list of therapies for grief and bereavement that are available at The Body Matters:

• Telephone & Online Counselling
• Hypnotherapy
• Meditation
• BWRT

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