Understanding
Bereavement
Bereavement is the natural response to losing someone important to you. Whilst grief is a normal human experience, it can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of your life, including your physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and daily functioning.
Understanding
Bereavement
Bereavement is the natural response to losing someone important to you. Whilst grief is a normal human experience, it can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of your life, including your physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and daily functioning.
Understanding
Bereavement
Bereavement is the natural response to losing someone important to you. Whilst grief is a normal human experience, it can feel overwhelming and affect every aspect of your life, including your physical health, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and daily functioning.
What does Bereavement feel like?
Living with bereavement can feel like navigating an emotional storm with waves of different feelings hitting unexpectedly. You might experience intense sadness, anger, guilt, or numbness that comes and goes without warning. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, or feeling physically heavy are common. Many people describe feeling lost, as if a part of themselves is missing, or struggling to find meaning in daily activities.
Grief can make concentration difficult, affect memory, and leave you feeling disconnected from others who haven't experienced your loss. The pain can feel unbearable at times, yet you may also experience moments of peace, happy memories, or even guilt about feeling briefly normal.
Common Symptoms
Intense sadness, crying, or emotional numbness
Anger, irritability, or mood swings
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or appetite changes
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams about the deceased
Guilt, regret, or ruminating thoughts about the loss
Social withdrawal or feeling disconnected from others
Searching behaviours or sensing the presence of the deceased
What does Bereavement feel like?
Living with bereavement can feel like navigating an emotional storm with waves of different feelings hitting unexpectedly. You might experience intense sadness, anger, guilt, or numbness that comes and goes without warning. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, or feeling physically heavy are common. Many people describe feeling lost, as if a part of themselves is missing, or struggling to find meaning in daily activities.
Grief can make concentration difficult, affect memory, and leave you feeling disconnected from others who haven't experienced your loss. The pain can feel unbearable at times, yet you may also experience moments of peace, happy memories, or even guilt about feeling briefly normal.
Common Symptoms
Intense sadness, crying, or emotional numbness
Anger, irritability, or mood swings
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or appetite changes
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams about the deceased
Guilt, regret, or ruminating thoughts about the loss
Social withdrawal or feeling disconnected from others
Searching behaviours or sensing the presence of the deceased
What does Bereavement feel like?
Living with bereavement can feel like navigating an emotional storm with waves of different feelings hitting unexpectedly. You might experience intense sadness, anger, guilt, or numbness that comes and goes without warning. Physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, changes in appetite, or feeling physically heavy are common. Many people describe feeling lost, as if a part of themselves is missing, or struggling to find meaning in daily activities.
Grief can make concentration difficult, affect memory, and leave you feeling disconnected from others who haven't experienced your loss. The pain can feel unbearable at times, yet you may also experience moments of peace, happy memories, or even guilt about feeling briefly normal.
Common Symptoms
Intense sadness, crying, or emotional numbness
Anger, irritability, or mood swings
Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or appetite changes
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Sleep disturbances or vivid dreams about the deceased
Guilt, regret, or ruminating thoughts about the loss
Social withdrawal or feeling disconnected from others
Searching behaviours or sensing the presence of the deceased
History of Bereavement
Understanding grief has evolved from viewing it as something to overcome quickly to recognising bereavement as a natural, complex process requiring compassionate support.
1960s
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the "five stages of grief" model, providing the first structured framework for understanding the grieving process, though later recognised as too linear for many people's experiences.
1980s
Researchers began recognising that grief doesn't follow predictable stages, leading to more individualised approaches and understanding that there's no "right way" to grieve or standard timeline for healing.
1990s
The concept of "complicated grief" emerged, distinguishing between normal grieving processes and more persistent, disabling grief that benefits from professional intervention and specialised treatment approaches.
Present
Modern bereavement support emphasises continuing bonds with the deceased, post-traumatic growth, and personalised grief approaches, recognising cultural differences and the lifelong nature of grief adaptation rather than "recovery."
History of Bereavement
Understanding grief has evolved from viewing it as something to overcome quickly to recognising bereavement as a natural, complex process requiring compassionate support.
1960s
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the "five stages of grief" model, providing the first structured framework for understanding the grieving process, though later recognised as too linear for many people's experiences.
1980s
Researchers began recognising that grief doesn't follow predictable stages, leading to more individualised approaches and understanding that there's no "right way" to grieve or standard timeline for healing.
1990s
The concept of "complicated grief" emerged, distinguishing between normal grieving processes and more persistent, disabling grief that benefits from professional intervention and specialised treatment approaches.
Present
Modern bereavement support emphasises continuing bonds with the deceased, post-traumatic growth, and personalised grief approaches, recognising cultural differences and the lifelong nature of grief adaptation rather than "recovery."
History of Bereavement
Understanding grief has evolved from viewing it as something to overcome quickly to recognising bereavement as a natural, complex process requiring compassionate support.
1960s
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross introduced the "five stages of grief" model, providing the first structured framework for understanding the grieving process, though later recognised as too linear for many people's experiences.
1980s
Researchers began recognising that grief doesn't follow predictable stages, leading to more individualised approaches and understanding that there's no "right way" to grieve or standard timeline for healing.
1990s
The concept of "complicated grief" emerged, distinguishing between normal grieving processes and more persistent, disabling grief that benefits from professional intervention and specialised treatment approaches.
Present
Modern bereavement support emphasises continuing bonds with the deceased, post-traumatic growth, and personalised grief approaches, recognising cultural differences and the lifelong nature of grief adaptation rather than "recovery."
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
Instructions
Answer the questions based on the last few weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test explores whether therapy could be helpful for you right now. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Grief counselling and bereavement therapy provide a safe space to process your loss and develop coping strategies. Therapists trained in grief work understand that healing doesn't mean "getting over" your loss, but learning to carry it in a way that allows you to engage with life again.
Therapy can help you navigate complicated emotions, address any guilt or regret, maintain connections with your deceased loved one, and gradually rebuild meaning and purpose. Different approaches including narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support groups can be tailored to your specific needs and cultural background.
Benefits of Therapy
Process complex emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Learn healthy coping strategies for managing grief waves
Address feelings of guilt, anger, or regret related to the loss
Develop ways to honour and maintain connection with the deceased
Navigate relationship changes and social challenges during grief
Build resilience and find meaning after significant loss
Address any complicated grief or traumatic aspects of the death
Create new routines and rebuild a sense of purpose and hope
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bereavement and grief counselling support
How long should grief last, and when should I seek professional help?
There's no standard timeline for grief - it's a highly individual process that can last months or years. Seek help if grief is preventing you from basic functioning, you're having thoughts of self-harm, or you feel completely stuck after several months with no moments of relief or hope.
Is it normal to feel angry at the person who died or at other people during grief?
Yes, anger is a completely normal part of grief. You might feel angry at the deceased for leaving, at others for not understanding, at yourself for things said or unsaid, or at the situation itself. These feelings are natural and don't reflect poorly on your love for the person.
Will I ever feel normal again, or does the pain of loss ever go away?
Whilst the acute pain typically lessens over time, grief often becomes a lifelong companion rather than something you "get over." Most people learn to carry their grief in a way that allows joy and meaning to return to their lives, though you may always miss your loved one.
Should I keep my loved one's belongings, or is it healthier to clear them out?
There's no right answer - this is entirely personal. Some people find comfort in keeping meaningful items, whilst others prefer to clear things out. Take your time with these decisions, and don't let others pressure you into choices that don't feel right for you.
How therapy can help
Grief counselling and bereavement therapy provide a safe space to process your loss and develop coping strategies. Therapists trained in grief work understand that healing doesn't mean "getting over" your loss, but learning to carry it in a way that allows you to engage with life again.
Therapy can help you navigate complicated emotions, address any guilt or regret, maintain connections with your deceased loved one, and gradually rebuild meaning and purpose. Different approaches including narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support groups can be tailored to your specific needs and cultural background.
Benefits of Therapy
Process complex emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Learn healthy coping strategies for managing grief waves
Address feelings of guilt, anger, or regret related to the loss
Develop ways to honour and maintain connection with the deceased
Navigate relationship changes and social challenges during grief
Build resilience and find meaning after significant loss
Address any complicated grief or traumatic aspects of the death
Create new routines and rebuild a sense of purpose and hope
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bereavement and grief counselling support
How long should grief last, and when should I seek professional help?
There's no standard timeline for grief - it's a highly individual process that can last months or years. Seek help if grief is preventing you from basic functioning, you're having thoughts of self-harm, or you feel completely stuck after several months with no moments of relief or hope.
Is it normal to feel angry at the person who died or at other people during grief?
Yes, anger is a completely normal part of grief. You might feel angry at the deceased for leaving, at others for not understanding, at yourself for things said or unsaid, or at the situation itself. These feelings are natural and don't reflect poorly on your love for the person.
Will I ever feel normal again, or does the pain of loss ever go away?
Whilst the acute pain typically lessens over time, grief often becomes a lifelong companion rather than something you "get over." Most people learn to carry their grief in a way that allows joy and meaning to return to their lives, though you may always miss your loved one.
Should I keep my loved one's belongings, or is it healthier to clear them out?
There's no right answer - this is entirely personal. Some people find comfort in keeping meaningful items, whilst others prefer to clear things out. Take your time with these decisions, and don't let others pressure you into choices that don't feel right for you.
How therapy can help
Grief counselling and bereavement therapy provide a safe space to process your loss and develop coping strategies. Therapists trained in grief work understand that healing doesn't mean "getting over" your loss, but learning to carry it in a way that allows you to engage with life again.
Therapy can help you navigate complicated emotions, address any guilt or regret, maintain connections with your deceased loved one, and gradually rebuild meaning and purpose. Different approaches including narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and support groups can be tailored to your specific needs and cultural background.
Benefits of Therapy
Process complex emotions in a safe, non-judgmental environment
Learn healthy coping strategies for managing grief waves
Address feelings of guilt, anger, or regret related to the loss
Develop ways to honour and maintain connection with the deceased
Navigate relationship changes and social challenges during grief
Build resilience and find meaning after significant loss
Address any complicated grief or traumatic aspects of the death
Create new routines and rebuild a sense of purpose and hope
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about bereavement and grief counselling support
How long should grief last, and when should I seek professional help?
There's no standard timeline for grief - it's a highly individual process that can last months or years. Seek help if grief is preventing you from basic functioning, you're having thoughts of self-harm, or you feel completely stuck after several months with no moments of relief or hope.
Is it normal to feel angry at the person who died or at other people during grief?
Yes, anger is a completely normal part of grief. You might feel angry at the deceased for leaving, at others for not understanding, at yourself for things said or unsaid, or at the situation itself. These feelings are natural and don't reflect poorly on your love for the person.
Will I ever feel normal again, or does the pain of loss ever go away?
Whilst the acute pain typically lessens over time, grief often becomes a lifelong companion rather than something you "get over." Most people learn to carry their grief in a way that allows joy and meaning to return to their lives, though you may always miss your loved one.
Should I keep my loved one's belongings, or is it healthier to clear them out?
There's no right answer - this is entirely personal. Some people find comfort in keeping meaningful items, whilst others prefer to clear things out. Take your time with these decisions, and don't let others pressure you into choices that don't feel right for you.
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
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Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)