​

While grief is normal and natural, most of the information passed on within our society about dealing with grief is not normal, natural or helpful.  Grief is the emotional response to loss.

 

Unfortunately, most of the information we have learned about dealing with grief is intellectual.  Grievers do not have broken heads; they have broken hearts!

​

The majority of misconceptions about dealing with loss can be summed up in six myths.  These are so common that nearly everyone recognizes them. Most people have never questioned whether or not they are valid.  The misinformation is best described in the following list.

 

• Time heals all wounds

• Grieve alone

• Be Strong

• Don’t feel bad

• Replace the loss

• Keep  busy

 

Just looking at the myth “time heals” creates the idea that a person just has to wait and they will feel better.  We know as well, that these people would tell you that not only had time not healed them; but, it had compounded the pain of loss. 

 

The other 5 myths carry equally unhealthy messages.