Coping With Grief: Emotions, Misconceptions and Support

Grief is a powerful emotion every single one of us experiences in our lifetime. It touches us all—through the loss of a loved one, the end of a relationship, the loss of a job or a home, an unexpected diagnosis, the fading of a long-held dream. The list could go on. In one way or another, grief finds its way into all of our stories.

When grief shows up—heavy and uninvited—it can feel confusing, isolating, and oftentimes overwhelming. Although it’s universal, grief is often misunderstood, weighed down by cultural misconceptions and unrealistic expectations.

Understanding Grief: More Than Just Sadness

“Grief is not one emotion but a container that holds all of the emotions felt as a result of loss.” – Speaking Grief

Many of us have internalized the idea that grief is something to overcome, something we must eventually “move on” from. But that belief can invalidate deep, real emotions and create shame when the healing process takes time—often longer than others (or we) expect.

Misconception #1: Grief Is a Problem to Solve

Grief isn’t something to “fix.” It’s not a broken part of you. Instead, grief is something to carry. Trying to get over it or rush the process only leads to frustration, isolation, and unrealistic self-expectations. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting; it means finding new ways to live with what was lost.

Misconception #2: Grief Follows a Straight Line

Since our brains often like to cling to certainty, predictability, and patterns, believing that grief follows a smooth timeline like the one pictured below can miss the mark on a person’s actual experience with grief. In reality, everyone experiences grief differently, and there is no magic formula to determine a timeline.

How to Carry Grief With Compassion

1. Allow Your Emotions

Whether it’s sadness, guilt, rage, numbness, or even moments of peace—let yourself feel without judgment. As Dr. Dan Siegel says, “Name it to tame it.” By acknowledging and naming emotions, you can begin to process them.

2. Practice Self-Compassion and Self-Care

Grief is exhausting. It’s okay to rest. Be gentle with yourself, and make space for things that replenish you. Walk outside. Meditate. Pray. Write. Create. Grieve in your own way, on your own timeline.

3. Seek Support

You are not meant to walk through grief alone. Community, therapy, and support groups can provide safety, understanding, and healing. Even just having someone witness your pain can ease its weight.

Grief Is Not a Detour—It’s Part of the Journey

Grieving is hard, but it’s also human. You are not broken. You are not alone. With time, support, and compassion, grief becomes something you carry more gently, integrating it into your story as you move forward.

If you or someone you love is navigating grief in Austin or any of our other locations, the team at Rivers Edge Counseling + Wellness is here to help. Reach out—we are honored to walk alongside you.