Podcast Transcript

Welcome back to another episode of "Grief Untangled: Untangling the Threads of Grief, Healing, and Hope." I'm your host, Coach DD. Today, in this episode we are going to talk about the emotion or feeling of shock and disbelief.

Grief is an intricate journey, and it often begins with emotions that are challenging to comprehend. One of the initial emotions that many people experience is shock and disbelief.

When we lose someone dear to us, whether through death, the end of a relationship, or another form of separation, it's common to feel a profound sense of shock. It's as if our world has been turned upside down, and we find it difficult to accept the reality of what has happened.

This stage can be described as feeling like you're in a fog or a dream. You might ask yourself, "Is this real? Could it be even possible?” It's as if your mind is trying to protect you from the full impact of the loss.

Shock and disbelief can manifest in various ways. Some people become emotionally numb, feeling like they're walking through life in a daze. Others might have physical symptoms like a racing heart, shortness of breath, or even a feeling of unreality.

In my own experience of grief,

I found myself in a state of shock and disbelief for several months. Each night, as I went to sleep, I held onto the hope that I would awaken, only to discover that the painful reality was just a terrible dream. Yet, every morning, I confronted the same harsh truth, confirming that the loss was indeed real.

It's essential to understand that these emotions are a normal response to loss. The intensity and duration can vary from person to person. For some, the shock may be relatively short-lived, while for others, it can persist for weeks or even months.

During this stage, it's crucial to give yourself permission to feel what you're feeling. It's okay to question, to doubt, and to need time to absorb the reality of your loss.

So, how can you navigate through the shock and disbelief stage of grief?

First and foremost, be gentle with yourself. Understand that your mind and heart need time to process what has happened.

Reach out to your support network. Share your feelings with friends, family, or a grief coach. Talking about your shock and disbelief can help you make sense of it.

Consider journaling. Writing down your thoughts and emotions can be a therapeutic way to release what's inside.

Lastly, remember that as time passes, your shock will gradually begin to fade. This doesn't mean you'll forget your loved one or the loss, but it's the start of your journey toward healing and acceptance.

Closing

Thanks for joining me today on "Grief Untangled." I hope this episode sheds some light on the emotions of shock and disbelief in grief. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and healing is possible.

In our next episode, we'll explore another facet of grief. Until then, take care, and remember, healing and hope are within reach.