Grief is often associated with the death of a loved one, but it can also follow the end of a relationship, a change in health, the loss of a job, or even the life we had imagined for ourselves. Whatever the cause, grief is a natural response to losing someone or something that mattered.

From an attachment perspective, grief reflects the bonds we form throughout our lives. As human beings, we are wired for connection, and when an important attachment is disrupted, it can leave us feeling untethered. This is why grief can show up in so many different ways. You may experience sadness, anger, guilt, numbness, anxiety, relief, or even moments of joy. There is no "right" way to grieve, and these emotions often come and go unpredictably.

Our early attachment experiences can also influence how we grieve. Some people feel able to reach out for comfort and support, while others withdraw, minimise their pain, or feel overwhelmed by it. These responses are not signs of weakness; they are often ways we have learned to cope with emotional loss.

Healing does not mean forgetting or "moving on." Instead, it involves finding a way to carry the relationship or loss with us while continuing to engage with life. Therapy can provide a safe, compassionate space to explore your grief, make sense of your emotions, and gently process the impact of your loss. With support, it is possible to honour what has been lost while gradually finding hope, meaning, and connection again.