When we picture grief, we often imagine someone crying quietly in a dark room or breaking down in public. While crying is a completely valid and common part of the grieving process, it’s far from the only way grief shows up.
At Achieve Wellness in Orange, CT, we work with individuals and families who are navigating all types of grief, from the loss of a loved one to major life transitions. One of the first things we often say is this: grief doesn’t follow a script.
If you’ve experienced a loss and feel numb, irritable, or even disconnected, that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. You’re grieving, too.
What Are the Less Obvious Signs of Grief?
Grief is personal and layered. You might cry every day, or not at all. You might feel fine one moment and overwhelmed the next. Here are some common, less talked-about ways grief may appear:
- Irritability or Anger
You may find yourself snapping at loved ones or feeling frustrated over little things. This isn’t uncommon—grief can stir up feelings of injustice, regret, or helplessness that come out as anger.
- Exhaustion or Fatigue
Grieving takes a toll on your body and mind. You might feel tired even if you’re getting enough sleep, or find it hard to get out of bed.
- Numbness or Disconnection
Some people feel emotionally flat after a loss. This is the brain’s way of protecting you from the full weight of your pain all at once. Numbness is still grief.
- Difficulty Concentrating
Grief can affect your focus and memory. If you’re struggling to complete everyday tasks or feel mentally foggy, you’re not alone.
- Guilt or Confusion
You may question if you’re grieving the “right” way. Maybe you haven’t cried, or maybe you’re laughing again and wondering if it’s too soon. These thoughts are normal and worth talking about.
Why Understanding Grief Matters
Recognizing how grief shows up in your life helps you meet yourself with more compassion. There’s no finish line for grieving, and it doesn’t always unfold in neat stages. It comes in waves, sometimes unexpectedly, and that’s okay.
It also helps to remember that grief doesn’t only stem from death. Divorce, job loss, moving away, or even a change in identity can trigger a grieving process. All of these losses deserve to be honored and processed.
How Therapy Can Help
You don’t have to go through grief alone. Working with a licensed therapist gives you space to express what you’re feeling, even if you’re still figuring it out. At Achieve Wellness, we offer grief and bereavement counseling that meets you where you are, whether your loss was recent or happened years ago.
Together, we can help you:
- Understand and process your emotions
- Release the pressure to “move on”
- Reconnect with meaning and healing
- Find healthy ways to honor your loss
However your grief looks, it’s valid—and you don’t have to carry it alone.
If you’re struggling with loss, support is available.
📞 Reach out to schedule a session with one of our compassionate therapists today.
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