01/05/2026
Grief Takes Time
The Myth versus Reality
One of the biggest myths concerning grief recovery is the expression “Grief Just Takes Time’. In fact, time will do nothing for someone’s pain but pass. Have you ever met someone grieving a loss which occurred many, many years prior, patiently waiting for some type of recovery? It’s like waiting for a miracle, it’s just not going to happen.
Having said that, in reality grief does take time but the key ingredient in recovery is to make use of that time. It’s about taking action and one can do that by actively participating in one’s grief. Mourning the loss immediately and not suppressing feelings is a much better approach than watching time pass and expecting a positive result.
One method of actively participating in one’s grief involves four steps. The first is accepting the reality of the loss and confronting one’s memories of the deceased, both good and bad. An inner dialogue is created and events surrounding the death are replayed including feelings felt at the funeral and the weeks and months which follow. This allows a new reality to sink in.
Next, sharing thoughts and expressing feelings with others is needed and seeking out those who are supportive and non-judgemental is recommended. Having others participate and support in this process is vital in the healing process.
The following step is adjusting to a new environment where the deceased is missing. This is done by taking on a new identity as one faces the challenges of new roles without that person present in one’s life.
Lastly a shift in thinking is needed. Self-permission needs to be given to convert the relationship with the person who died from one of presence to one of memory. A mindset of reminiscing about the past, engaging in the present and embracing the future with a renewed sense of hope needs to be developed.
It’s important to remember that the grief journey is not linear. There may be temporary setbacks in progress through this unique life altering experience. Everyone will complete this task in their own time which often depends on the depth of the relationship and the circumstances surrounding the loss.
Remember, grief is a process, recovery is a choice.
-Tom Easthope, Bereavement Counselor and Author
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