16/09/2025
How grief can affect us and what we can do about it…
Grief doesn’t only appear when we lose a loved one. It can show up when someone we care about is sick, when a relationship ends, or when a business or dream we’ve poured our heart into doesn’t unfold the way we hoped. It’s not just about losing a person or something in our life – it’s also about losing the future we imagined, the plans we made, and the sense of certainty we once held.
This kind of grief often goes unseen, but it’s just as real. It can weigh on the mind, body, and spirit – leaving us tired, heavy, or questioning our direction. Giving ourselves permission to recognise this as grief is powerful. It’s a way of honouring the love, effort, and meaning we’ve invested.
Ways to support yourself:
🎗️ Rest and nourishment: Give your body time and space; simple routines can ground you.
🎗️ Creative expression: Journaling, art, or music can release emotions beyond words.
🎗️ Movement: Gentle exercise, walking, or yoga helps move grief energy through the body.
🎗️ Spiritual practices: Meditation, prayer, breathwork, or time in nature can restore connection.
🎗️ Seek support: Speaking with a trusted friend, therapist, or support group can ease isolation.
Ways to support others:
🎗️ Be present: You don’t need to “fix” their grief – listening and simply being there is powerful.
🎗️ Offer practical help: Meals, errands, or childcare can lighten the weight of daily life.
🎗️ Remember and acknowledge: Share memories, say their loved one’s name, and check in over time – not just immediately after the loss.
🎗️ Respect their rhythm: Everyone grieves differently; allow them to set the pace.
🎗️ Encourage care: Remind them gently to rest, eat, and breathe.
Grief changes us, but it can also deepen compassion, connection, and our understanding of life. Supporting yourself and others through it is a sacred act of love.
If you or someone you know is needing support the following organisations are available:
Grief Australia – 1800 642 066
Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 (available 24 hours a day)
Carer Gateway Australia at Freecall 1800 422 737
Griefline Helpline – 1300 845 745 (8am-8pm 7 days a week)
Kids Helpline – 1800 551 800 (available 24 hours a day for young people aged 5 to 25)
With love and gratitude,
Melinda
Image: Wirestock on Freepik
Music: Boulvard X-Audi/Jamendo. Source: Adobe Stock
