Grief isn't one-size-fits-all, and it's the nuance between the types that causes many people to stay stuck.
There are two types of grief: regular grief when you lose something you had, and ambiguous grief when you realize you'll never have something you always wanted.
Ambiguous grief is real and can be just as painful and I'm going to help you walk through that in this episode.
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Here's what you'll find in this video:
00:00 Two Types of Grief: Regular and Ambiguous
There are two types of grief - regular grief, which occurs when you lose something you once had, and ambiguous grief, which is the realization that something you always thought you'd have will never come to be. Ambiguous grief can be as devastating as regular grief, and it often goes unrecognized by the world. It's like mourning the loss of an alternate version of yourself that will never exist.
04:02 Healing from Grief
Both regular and ambiguous grief can heal over time through a combination of time passing and the expression of grief. It's important to feel and express your emotions naturally. Grief doesn't follow a linear path and comes in waves, so it's crucial to allow these emotions to come and go. Avoid rushing the healing process and remember that it's okay to take emotional breaks when the grief fades temporarily.
08:15 Ceremonies and Closure
While traditional ceremonies like funerals help provide closure for regular grief, ambiguous grief often lacks such closure. To cope with ambiguous loss, consider creating your own form of ceremony or acknowledgment to signify the finality of your dream or expectation. Closure is essential to moving forward and preventing prolonged denial and limbo states.
12:15 Avoiding the Pitfalls of Comparison
Comparing your ambiguous grief to others' situations can lead to negative emotions and hinder your healing process. Avoid the impulse to compare, as it will only make you feel angry and hurt. Each person's experience is unique, and comparing yourself to others won't bring you closer to healing or closure. Fight back against the urge to compare your situation with others.
