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Shattering Myths About Grief After Traumatic Loss
It has been four weeks since the tragic events of September 11th sent shock
waves across America and the world. Our nation's collective feeling of security
has been shaken as people struggle to deal with overwhelming feelings of loss
and grief.
"These violent incidents have focused our nation's attention on issues of
loss," commented Jack Gordon, Chairman of Hospice Foundation of America. "In
order to deal with loss it's important to recognize some misconceptions about
grief.:
Grief is a response to any loss, not just the death of a loved one. Traumatic
incidents, such as the recent terrorist attacks, threats to public safety and
the suffering of those we've seen highlighted in the media are all losses that
affect us deeply. The safety of U.S. military personnel is of great concern to
many Americans.
A better understanding of the way grief affects us can facilitate healing.
Hospice Foundation of America offers some practical advice for coping with loss.
Shattering Eight Myths about Grief
Myth 1: We only grieve deaths. Reality: We grieve all losses.
Myth 2: Only family members grieve. Reality: All who are attached grieve.
Myth 3: Grief is an emotional reaction. Reality: Grief is manifested in many
ways.
Myth 4: Individuals should leave grieving at home. Reality: We cannot control
where we grieve.
Myth 5: We slowly and predictably recover from grief. Reality: Grief is an
uneven process, a roller coaster with no time line.
Myth 6: Grieving means letting go of the person who has died. Reality: We
never fully detach.
Myth 7: Grief finally ends. Reality: People learn to live with loss over
time.
Myth 8: Grievers are best left alone. Reality: Grievers need opportunities to
share their memories and grief, and to receive support.
In discussing grief during HFA's National Bereavement Teleconference, Cokie
Roberts, of ABC News, remarked, "Over time people learn to live with the loss,
but it's not something you get over. The grieving process is a series of ups and
downs, and often it's more intense in the early years." Only with care and
compassion can we support each other and learn to cope with the tragic losses we
have suffered.
http://www.hospicefoundation.org/media/press.htm#091201b
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