Rethinking Grief and Its Cultural Perception

Grief is often viewed through the lens of a linear progression, typically associated with the flawed concept of five stages, but this perception can hinder genuine healing. A societal pressure exists to quickly move on with life after a loss, which may lead individuals to suppress their grief rather than acknowledge and process it. This cultural shift towards grief repression, especially post-World War II, has contributed to adverse mental health outcomes, as many people feel isolated in their experiences of loss. Open discussions about grief can foster connections and mutual support, yet individuals often wait for permission to share their feelings in today's individualistic culture.