Hey there, Death Matters fam! It's Felicia! Today we're diving deep into a topic that touches every single one of us: grief. But before we jump in, I want to extend a warm welcome back to all of you. Now, let's get real about something that many of us go through but often shy away from discussing—grief.

From the numerous requests to address this topic, sharing my own grief journeys (yes, plural, because life hits hard), to helping others navigate the complex emotions it brings—today, it's all about understanding and coping with grief.

First and foremost, let me assure you that feeling the rollercoaster of emotions that grief brings is absolutely normal. It's a fundamental part of the human experience. Now, let's dive into the various types of grief because, trust me, not all grief is created equal.

1. **Normal Grief:** This is that raw mix of emotions we feel right after losing someone or something. Sadness, anger, relief—it's all part of the process. Acknowledging these emotions is the first step in coping.

2. **Complicated Grief:** Ever experienced the resurgence of intense emotions years after a loss? That's complicated grief. It hits during anniversaries, birthdays, or special occasions, making it a challenging but valid part of the journey.

3. **Ambiguous Grief:** When you feel the loss of someone, but you're unsure if they're alive or not. It's an unclear, undefined form of grief that adds an extra layer of complexity.

4. **Anticipatory Grief:** Knowing a loss is imminent, like when someone's health is deteriorating. The emotions start to kick in, preparing you for the inevitable.

5. **Secondary Grief:** Feeling the pain of someone else's loss, even if you didn't know the person directly. It's a shared sorrow, a vicarious experience.

6. **Disenfranchised Grief:** Grieving for something that society might not readily accept, like the loss of a beloved pet. It's a struggle when others don't understand the depth of your emotions.

7. **Communal Grief:** As a community, we share the pain of collective losses, whether it's a national tragedy or a local incident. Think 9/11, or our collective grief for various global events.

Understanding these different types of grief is crucial because, let's face it, grief can be a lonely and misunderstood journey. It's okay to feel scared, confused, or uncertain during this process.

Now, how do we cope with grief? Let me share a personal story to shed some light. During my time in the Navy, I faced a profound loss. A friend had taken their own life, and the emotions that followed were overwhelming. The complicated grief that ensued made me question if I could have done something differently.

Fast forward to my mom's story—a battle with substance abuse and the anticipatory grief that accompanied it. Her passing brought a mix of emotions, including relief. But here's the truth: you don't just "get over" grief; you move through it.

So, how did I cope? Writing, exercising, and creating rituals to honor my loved ones became essential. Lighting a candle on special dates or doing things that reminded me of them helped me navigate the journey.

Remember, there's no right or wrong way to grieve. Each journey is unique, personal, and valid. Don't let anyone dictate how you should feel or how long your process should take.

If you're struggling, building a strong support system, seeking therapy, or talking to someone who understands can make a world of difference. And hey, I'm here for you if you need someone to talk to.

Before we wrap up, I want to share a personal note with you all. As a registered nurse, it's important to emphasize that none of the information shared here is medical or legal advice. If you find yourself struggling with grief, I strongly recommend reaching out to a therapist.

Speaking from my own experience, therapy has been a game-changer for me. The time spent with my therapist has not only helped me navigate the complexities of grief but has also positively impacted various aspects of my life. It's a powerful avenue for healing that extends beyond the realm of grief.

Additionally, finding purpose amidst grief is crucial. For me, you, the listeners, and viewers are my purpose. The loss I've experienced, the conversations my mom had with me, and my background as a hospice nurse allow me to share experiences and knowledge with you. My slogan, "Normalizing death one conversation at a time," reflects the mission to break down taboos surrounding death.

So, as you reflect on this post, remember that grieving is normal, whether it's for a loved one, a pet, or even a lost pen. We all have countless things to grieve, and it's okay. Feel free to share this blog with someone who might benefit from it, and don't forget to like, subscribe, leave a comment, or a review. Your engagement helps continue this important conversation about death, feelings, and everything in between.

Thank you for being part of this community, and remember, you're not alone in your journey. Let's keep talking, keep sharing, and keep normalizing death—one conversation at a time.

Grief is a part of life, but so is healing. Let's embrace our individual journeys and support each other through the process. Until next time, take care of yourselves, Death Matters family!