Types of Loss
Loss comes in many forms and each one can have a deep emotional impact. You might be grieving
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The death of a loved one
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The end of a relationship or friendship
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Loss of health or mobility
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A pet who was part of the family
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A job, home, or sense of security
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Loss of trust, identity, or purpose
Understanding
the Many Types of Loss
We often think of grief as something that follows the death of a loved one but grief can follow any significant loss. In fact, there are more than 40 types of loss we may experience in our lifetime, each affecting our emotional, mental, and even physical wellbeing.
Grief is natural and normal. Whatever your loss looks like, if it’s affecting you, it’s valid and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Overwhelming and Requires Support
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Death of a Loved One
Bereavement may be the most recognized type of grief—whether it’s the loss of a partner, parent, friend, child, or other loved one.
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Divorce or Relationship Breakdown
The end of a relationship can bring over whelming sadness, rejection, or identity loss. You may also grieve the future you thought you’d have.
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Loss of a Pet
Our animal companions are family. Their loss can leave a deep, often misunderstood gap.
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Fertility Loss, Miscarriage, or Baby Loss
Infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, or neonatal loss is deeply personal and often invisible to others
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Menopause and Identity Shifts
Emotional changes tied to menopause often involve grief around youth, identity, and future dreams.
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Children and Teenagers Grieving
Grief in children and teens looks different than in adults. They may not have the words, but they feel the loss deeply.
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Sobriety and Recovery
Letting go of an addictive substance or lifestyle can involve grieving who you were, even while moving toward healing.
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Loss of Health or Mobility
A diagnosis, chronic illness, or injury can bring grief for the life you once had or hoped to live.
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Job Loss or Retirement
Leaving a role that gave purpose or structure can feel profoundly unsettling, even when planned.
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Financial Loss or Change in Circumstances
Loss of income, home, or security can deeply affect your sense of safety and identity.
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Relocation or Cultural Loss
Moving away from your country, culture, or community can bring a sense of disconnection rarely acknowledged as grief.
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Loss Due to Suicide
Grieving a loved one who died by suicide is often complex and isolating.
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Loss of a Child (any age)
The grief of losing a child, young or adult, is profound and often defies sense or order.
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Loss of a Friend
Friendships can be lifelong sources of love and support. Losing one can bring lasting grief.
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Children Leaving Home
Even joyful milestones like the “empty nest” can bring sadness or questioning of purpose.
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Loss Due to Domestic Violence
Grief can follow the loss of safety, trust, or identity when escaping a violent relationship.
This is Just the Beginning
Other losses we may grieve include:
Loss of faith or spiritual connection
Loss of confidence or trust
Loss of safety after trauma
Loss of dreams or goals
Estrangement from family
Identity loss after caregiving, parenting, or major life changes
Loss of control
Each of these deserves space, support, and understanding. I am here to listen and talk
You’re Not Alone in This
Loss can feel isolating, but help and hope are always within reach. Contact us to take a step toward comfort and clarity.