Grief can be an overwhelming feeling of sadness, depression, anger, and happiness all in one.
We all grieve in different ways. Some have lost loved ones. Some have recently been healing from a broken heart. Others grieve someone who hasn't even passed yet. Often, we think of grief coming after death, but it often comes long before death arrives. When the likelihood of death is presented, we often start the grieving process.
I wish I could tell you that the grief process is easy, but it isn't.
It’s especially exhausting and difficult grieving a loved one you haven't even lost yet. My father was diagnosed with throat cancer when I was in middle school. Throughout my adolescence and adulthood, his health has had its fair share of good and scary moments. I have learned through my own counseling, that my body is hyper-aware of anything that involves a phone call, an ambulance, or the word hospital when it comes to my dad. The worst part is that I have already started preparing myself for death. But, he's alive and well today.
I’m sure there are others out there who are in the same season as I am.
If you are in the same season as me, I encourage you to feel the grief, cherish the memories, and accept the new norm. Living with a sick parent or loved one isn't easy. But, you need to allow yourself to feel your feelings and avoid suppressing them. It's painful, but you will never be able to fully heal if you try to avoid the pain of losing your loved one. Cherish the memories: the old and new ones. Things might not look the same, but remember that they are still the same person they once were. The only difference is that an illness has taken over and they aren't able to do some of the things they used to do.
Last, accept the new norm.
Things might not be like they were before sickness took over, and that's okay. Accepting the new norm, allows you to cherish and love the memories you have now while your loved one is still here.
Psalm 34:18 says, “ The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” It is normal to feel alone while you are grieving, but the Lord reminds us that He is here for us. We are never alone.
Begin Working with A Grief Counselor in Tampa, FL
If you need help processing your grief or loss, please call us. We are here to offer support and a safe place to work through the difficult time you are going through. There is hope in grief, and we want to share that with you. Our team is happy to offer support from our Tampa, FL-based therapy practice. To start your therapeutic journey, please follow these simple steps:
Meet with a caring therapist
Start addressing the symptoms of your grief
Other Services Offered with Christian Counseling of Tampa
Grief counseling isn’t the only service offered by our Tampa, FL-based therapy practice. We understand you may experience other mental health concerns alongside grief symptoms. This is why we are happy to offer premarital counseling, Christian counseling, therapy for anxiety, child therapy, marriage intensives, trauma, and therapy for depression. We use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, EFT, ART, and more! Feel free to learn more about us by visiting our FAQ or blog today!