Grief Therapy After a Loss Of A Pet
Losing a pet can feel similar to losing a loved one for a lot of people. Feeling numb, sad, shocked, guilty, depressed and even angry is not uncommon. Even though the loss of a pet isn't always given the same consideration as the loss of a loved one, the process of grief is similar for both.
It can be challenging to grieve the loss of a pet. For some people, it can affect how they function on a day to day basis as well. Knowing how to cope with the loss of a pet is an important part of the grieving process. If losing your pet is having a significant impact on you and affecting your mental health, then you should consider talking to a counselor. That way, you can find support and heal better.
Why Does Losing A Pet Hurt So Much?
The loss of a pet can be a painful experience. Research has revealed that losing a pet can be as painful as, if not more painful than losing someone you love. This is as pets play an important role in the lives of their owners. They provide unconditional love, reciprocal attachment, as well as understanding.
Some people also feel as if their pets provide their with structure in their lives, purpose as well as responsibility. There are a lot of people who see their pets as a source of comfort and support. The loss of the bond that an owner shares with their pet is what feels devastating.
If you're struggling with losing a pet, then therapy can help you. Talk to a therapist about what you can do to cope with your grief better.
Coping With The Loss Of A Pet
If you've lost a pet, then here are some things you can do to cope with that loss:
Find a way to memorialize your pet. Set aside time when you'll think about them remember them, and honor them.
Make a scrapbook about your pet, adding in all the pictures you have of them.
Learn more about pet loss and grief, and communicate with others in your situation.
Talk to a friend or a family member about how you're feeling.
Write a letter to your pet.
Give yourself time to grieve.
Visit a counselor so you can develop better coping strategies to deal with the loss of your pet.
If you're thinking of getting therapy, then consider visiting Erin Saintil, LCSW, BCBA, Collaborative Therapeutic Services, and book a counseling session. A therapist can better help you to cope with the grieving process, and can enable you to find a way to heal.
NEED HELP?
Collaborative Therapeutic Services (CTS) wants to help. We offer a variety of counselling and therapy services, hours, and service providers with diverse specializations. We offer evening & weekend appointments in office or by TeleHealth conferencing.
Have questions? Contact Us Here or Call 813-951-7346. Located in Tampa, Florida. Ask us about our new NEUROLEASE® TREATMENT THERAPY - A cutting edge treatment for releasing toxic emotions.