What is “Re-Grief?”

“Re-grief” is a psychological term that refers to the renewed experience of mourning a loss that occurred in the past and was previously grieved.  In other words, re-grief may make you feel as though you are mourning the death of your loved one all over again and reliving the pain of the loss – possibly for the second, third, or fourth time.  

Re-grief occurs unexpectedly and long after the original event, making you feel as though the death happened just yesterday.  You may cry, feel overwhelming sadness, or feel as though you are moving slowly through a thick, dense fog. 

Experiencing re-grief does not mean that you have failed to heal from the original loss.  Instead, it showcases the way loss continues to interact with a person’s life as it evolves.

It is important to note that re-grief is a normal and healthy process. It demonstrates that grief is not something to “complete,” but something that is carried, reshaped, and understood over time. 

Experts advise people experiencing re-grief to stop and take a few deep breaths.  Tune into what you are feeling, then intentionally set those feelings aside for a more appropriate time.  When you are able, give yourself the necessary time to grieve. Give in completely to what you feel. Gently remind yourself that your grief is ongoing. There is nothing wrong with you and you are not broken. Tell yourself: “Grief is an experience, not an event.”

Self-care is of the utmost importance when you are experiencing re-grief, as is identifying triggers.  Share with others how you are feeling and ask to modify a situation to make it easier for you.  Above all, be gentle with yourself and remember that grief is a process. The painful place that you feel you are in today is not where you will stay forever.

Source: 

https://therapychanges.com/blog/2018/05/coping-re-grief/

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