Elizabeth Rousseau, M.S., LMFT

Grief is an individualized, adaptive, and non-linear process. It is not an “illness” or something “get over”, but rather something we learn to live with. The symptoms and intensity of grief may reappear throughout our lives.

In cases of sudden and tragic loss, pet owners are not afforded the opportunity to mentally prepare for their pet’s death, which can make it harder to accept. While anticipating a loss does not necessarily diminish the emotional response at the time of physical loss, several studies have suggested that those impacted by sudden loss can experience greater extended grief, face additional complications such as self-blame, PTSD, and complicated grief, and have a more difficult time ascribing meaning to the loss.

Grief is a transformational process, and our lives can be forever changed by loss. Our external environment, parts of our identity, our routine, and even our spirituality can be affected/changed by grief. Rather than focusing on getting back to “normal”, we eventually adapt and adjust to our changed lives.

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