What is grief?

Grief is a natural and normal response to loss. The most common reasons for experiencing grief are death and divorce, but we may also experience grief after a loss of health, pet, career change, trust, security, or hope. The expression of grief can look different to every individual: some may experience anger, while others experience sadness or disbelief. The time frame that these feelings stay with a person varies quite greatly, as everyone is unique.

Why do people grieve?

There are many reasons people grieve. Often, we hear about the death of a loved one, but this could also be the loss of a pet or family member, a miscarriage, and so on. We may also grieve the loss of a job, home, community, dreams, or maybe even your childhood and youth. This is not an exhaustive list, as there are many reasons humans grieve.

Please know that these feelings are a normal and natural response to life events. If you are grieving, this may appear in the form of anger, sadness, shock, or depression. You may be told to “be strong” or to “bury the emotions/don’t feel bad” or even to “grieve in private.” These are harmful views of grief. You do not need to be strong or hide the emotions from yourself or others. 

Grief is a period of hurt and healing. A grief recovery support group offers a chance to talk to others who are experiencing the same thing without fear, criticism, or judgement. 

How to heal

At Pearl Psychological, we use the proven Grief Recovery Method in our grief and loss groups. This is an evidence-based program that is proven to help individuals walk through grief in a healthy way. 

We are hosting the Grief Recovery Support Group in September 2025. We use the Grief Recovery Method™ over 8 weeks, using tools and knowledge to aid us as we heal. This group is a judgement-free zone, where people processing loss support each other and walk towards reconnecting with themselves. 

Find relief and connection in a supportive setting with others who understand. Sign up for the Grief Recovery Support Group hosted by licensed psychologists in Edmonton now!

If you are looking for a space to heal alongside others experiencing similar emotions, sign up here or call us at 587-400-0300 for more information. 

Early Bird discount is valid until August 30, 2025. Find out more by reaching out.