<h2>What Does Grief Feel Like? </h2> Sadly, grief`s agonising pain will come to each and every one of us at some time in our lives. Saying farewell to a pet or losing a loved one may be excruciatingly difficult, altering our reality and sending us into a tailspin. And because grieving a loss is such a personal experience, it may be quite challenging to forecast how we would feel. It`s not really organised or logical. It doesn`t adhere to any timetables or plans. You can feel sad, angry, alone, or empty. All of these occurrences are normal and correct.<h3> </h3><h2>What are the 7 stages of grief? </h2> Grief is highly personal. Although everyone grieves in their own way, there are certain similarities among the phases and sequence of emotions that are felt throughout mourning.You may be aware of the many phases of grieving, but you may not be familiar with how they operate or which stage you are currently going through. Every person expresses grief differently. Knowing this, however, is very different from really experiencing it.Feeling isolated in your mourning or concerned that your grieving isn`t going "naturally" is entirely acceptable. Based on <a href="https://www.psycom.net/stages-of-grief" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elizabeth Kübler-Ross`s `Five Stages of Grief `</a>, a seven-stage model was proposed to understand and explain the highly complicated loss experience.It`s vital to remember that everyone`s path through grief is different. Although they are known as "grief phases," it`s vital to remember that they aren`t stringent. Sometimes, the stages overlap or are skipped entirely. Nevertheless, understanding these 7 components will help you recognise some of the emotions you could feel, regardless of how and when you experience them. <h2>The 7 stages of grief:</h2> <h3>1) Shock &amp; Disbelief</h3>Your initial response may be shock or utter disbelief when you first learn about the loss of a loved one. You can`t even comprehend what just happened, so you`re not exactly in denial. This defence system was created to shield against pain.This stage explains why we can make funeral plans or other arrangements immediately after a death since you`re in a suspended condition until you can grieve. <h3>2) Denial</h3>Although denial and disbelief are similar, denial is a different coping strategy that also aids in overcoming loss and pain. Either denying your loved one has passed away or ignoring the memories are acceptable responses. It is unusual for someone to remain in a pathological and persistent state of denial and refuse to acknowledge any adverse events.There are several ways that this phase manifests. While some will deny their loved one has passed away, other people will deny they are mourning or that the loss has harmed them. <h3>3) Guilt</h3>A hit to the stomach might simulate guilt. It`s very reasonable to consider what you may have done differently to stop the loss. When a loved one passes away, the majority of us will likely feel some guilt (thoughts like "I could have done more" or "I should have called the doctor with my worries" are frequent), but only around 7% of individuals will go through "Complicated grief."Complicated grief is frequently characterised by guilt and makes the sufferer obsess about the specifics of the loss and what they may have done differently. They also have difficulty accepting that death is inevitable, or they surround themselves with mementoes and images that give them hope that the departed is still with them. <h3>4) Anger and Bargaining</h3>This phase often follows formalities and funerals. Now that your consoling relatives and friends have gone, you`re attempting to carry on with your normal activities. This is frequently when rage and bargaining are expressed. The doctors, another party, and maybe even the deceased themselves may make you upset. While this rage frequently makes people feel even worse about themselves, they realise that it is entirely natural and offers a crucial outlet for their emotions.Sometimes, even when they know it is pointless, individuals start to mentally "negotiate." "I would do X," for instance, to have them back. <h3>5) Depression, Loneliness and Reflection</h3>After fully acknowledging the loss, it is normal to feel depressed or extremely sad. You could also experience loneliness and separation from other family members. Seeking the advice and support of a grief counsellor who can assist you through the suffering at this difficult time may be extremely helpful.These sessions can serve as a time for you to reflect on your connection with your loved one, what it really meant to you, and how you can move on in the future. <h3>6) Reconstruction and working through</h3>You could still be climbing the ladder at this point, but you`ve built a new life without your lost loved one and are adjusting to your "new normal." Even though the pain may feel fresh and unbearable, you are aware that nothing can be done to change it. Even if you`re not quite ready to accept the death, you understand that life must carry on. <h3>7) Acceptance</h3>Acceptance is the model`s last phase. You accept that your loved one is gone and that you must carry on with your life after completing the most challenging and painful task of mourning.When you think about your loved one, you could start to smile again rather than sob or wince. You may start new hobbies, join new groups, go on vacations or preserve their priceless keepsakes. <h2>What is the hardest stage of grief to go through?</h2> Everyone has a different method of dealing with loss. However, there are certain overarching principles about the phases of grieving that may be useful to remember when coping with loss—especially for people going through a bereavement. According to a widely accepted belief, the acceptance stage is thought to be the most difficult. Because acceptance usually comes later in the mourning process, it is regarded as the most challenging stage of sorrow because it calls for complete acceptance that a loved one has passed away. Understanding that life without your loved one will never be the same while allowing you to develop, go forward, and appreciate your life is the first step in accepting the loss. <h2>How long does each stage of grief last?</h2>Each of these stages might last for any amount of time. One individual may go through the stages quickly—in a couple of weeks, for example—while another person may take months or even years to do so. It`s very natural for you to go through these stages when you do. The boundaries between the stages of the grief process are sometimes hazy. Before fully entering a new stage, we could transition from one stage to another and back again.<h2> </h2><h2>Why is it important to understand the stages of grief?</h2>These stages of grief are a part of a framework for how we learn to live with the one we lost. They serve as tools to help us categorise and name potential emotions. However, they do not represent a point in time where grief ceases. Not everybody passes through them all or in the designated order. Nevertheless, we can better deal with life`s ups and downs by understanding these stages and the terrain of grief. <h2>Getting help with grief</h2>Some people require additional assistance to get over the effects of loss and grief. However, asking for help is not a sign of weakness or a loss of control.If you have any of the following problems for longer than five weeks, you should see a mental health professional: <ul><li>You experience numbness or emptiness and cannot manage your emotions.</li><li>There aren`t many people you can chat with among your friends or family.</li><li>You are using liquor, drugs, sex, or gambling as self-medication.</li></ul> Many organisations offer support or information to those going through the grieving process. No matter where you are in the grieving process, you may receive support from organisations like: <ul><li><a href="https://connectedminds.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Connectedminds.ai</a> app (for <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connectedminds.prod.release" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android</a> and <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/connectedminds/id1612039449" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iOS</a>)</li><li>The Monarch Directory</li><li>Better Help</li></ul> It`s crucial to keep in mind that every person experiences loss in a unique way. While you could go through all five stages of grieving, you can also find it challenging to categorise your emotions into any stage. When coping with loss, be patient with yourself and your emotions. Give yourself time to go through your feelings, and then talk to loved ones or a healthcare professional about your experiences when you`re ready. Remember that you don`t have to do anything special if you are helping someone who has lost a close one, such as a spouse or sibling. Just give them space to speak when they`re ready.

Do you know the 7 stages of grief and how they affect you? We will explain each of the seven stages in detail, how long does each stage take, and how you can tackle grief.

What are 7 Stages of Grief & How Long Does Each Stage Take

We are well aware that romantic relationships require maintenance, like our vehicles, to keep them in good working order. And it is often best to fix any problem as soon as possible.Most of the time, we can perform simple upkeeps and repairs ourselves. But there are times when the repair is beyond our control, so it`s best to seek professional help. This is where couples counselling comes in. <h2>What is Couple Therapy?</h2>Couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy in which a trained professional uses a range of therapeutic interventions to assist individuals in romantic relationships by helping them: <ul><li>gain insight into their relationships</li><li>resolve conflict</li><li>and improve relationship satisfaction.</li></ul> Couples counselling involves conversations between romantic partners and the counsellor. Typically, they talk about the particular issue or problem that led to the need for therapy as well as their shared objectives. The process then entails employing techniques and acquiring abilities to enhance the connection, such as communication techniques, problem-solving techniques, and techniques for addressing disagreements and working through issues as a team. Couples counselling may be approached in a variety of ways. The method employed may vary depending on the couple, their difficulties and objectives, and the counsellor`s level of expertise. Additionally, several strategies can be applied to the same pair or session. <h2>Types of Couple Counselling :</h2><ul><li>Behavioural Approach: A behavioural approach to therapy considers the environment and how it influences or reinforces ideas and actions.</li><li>Humanistic Approach: A humanistic approach to couples counselling emphasises raising awareness of each person`s individuality.</li><li>Integrative Approach: An integrated approach to couples therapy employs various techniques to best fit the couple`s needs.</li><li>Psychodynamic Approach: A psychodynamic approach to couples counselling takes into account influences from the past to improve awareness of dynamics affecting the couple in the present and encourage change.</li></ul> <h2>Why Couple Therapy is needed?</h2>Conflict arises in every relationship. Battles over money are the causes for some, while a lack of sex or a habit of ongoing arguments may be the problem for others. Therapy may be beneficial. Contrary to popular belief, the issue is not one of assigning blame to who did what. Couples counselling instead offers methods for communicating and requesting what you need. American Psychological Association estimates that around 75% of couples who choose treatment think it strengthens their bonds. Couples therapy is not only helping a couple go through a divorce or to patch up a broken couple, but it also helps couples in the following ways: <ol><li>Assists couples take a break: Everyone is occupied with something in the present world. Therapy lets couples take a break from their hectic schedules and gather together to entirely centre themselves.</li><li>A mediator between couples: The counsellor serves as a mediator between the pair and promotes constructive dialogue. This is especially beneficial for couples eager to strengthen their bonds but unsure how to do so.</li><li>Analysis of behavioural patterns: The counsellor can assist in behavioural pattern analysis of couples to pinpoint the individuals who initiate conflict. Once these patterns are discovered, the couple can work with the counsellor to alter them.</li><li>Gives the couple skills to enhance communication and aids in breaking harmful behaviours.</li><li>Assists in resolving misconceptions: They aid in resolving conflicts and preventing misunderstandings. Counselling also helps form a more accurate image of what the other spouse envisions.</li><li>Finding common ground among partners is undoubtedly extremely simple if they know and appreciate each other`s goals and motives.</li></ol> <h2>How does Online Couple Therapy work?</h2> If someone asked you to imagine a scene from relationship counselling, you probably would envision a couple talking through their problems while sitting on a sofa in a therapy room.However, there is also the option for couples to speak with a therapist while still in the comfort of their own home. At the same time, their counsellor is displayed on a laptop screen in front of them. Ever since the coronavirus epidemic, more and more couples seeking a relationship or marital counselling are increasingly receiving treatment online.The first thing to do is to find a relationship counsellor. The best place to search for couple counsellors globally is at <a href="https://connectedminds.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ConnectedMinds.ai</a>. You can download <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connectedminds.prod.release" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iOS</a> and <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connectedminds.prod.release" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Android app of connectedminds</a>. You can also find online couple counsellors at @<a href="https://www.uktherapyguide.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">UKTherapyGuide</a> and @<a href="https://www.cambridgemedicalgroup.co.uk/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CambridgeMedicalCentre</a>, etc. Once you`ve located a counsellor, they will do an evaluation with you, and you may then choose whether or not to proceed. That is comparable to in-person counselling. But after that, you must decide where to hold your sessions. Where in your home is convenient and private for these discussions? Finding a private space might be challenging if young children or other family members are present in the house. Most individuals use a laptop to communicate with their counsellor, although most smartphones may also be used. It`s essential to ensure that your microphone, camera, headphones, and speakers are in good working order and that you have a setup you are comfortable with. Through relationship counselling, you may talk about issues and consider ways to overcome them in a friendly and non-judgmental environment. The same applies whether you communicate through phone, email, in-person, or the internet. When it really clicks for couples, they understand how they can connect with each other better. The key is communication. Helping a couple develop methods to communicate with one another is a big part of what a counsellor does. The first step to mending your relationship and making a commitment to growing together could be to look into counselling online. You may rest easy knowing that online treatment is frequently just as successful as in-person counselling and might occasionally be more affordable than traditional therapy. It`s just a matter of trusting the process and choosing a therapist you get along with once you`ve found the platform that works best for you and your spouse.

We’ll explain what online couple therapy is, how to do it and its benefits. We'll also mention different online platforms where virtual couple counselling can be performed.

Online Couple Therapy: How Does it Work & Best Platforms

<h2>Does overthinking disorder exist? </h2>Do you doubt every decision you make? Do you keep imagining worst-case scenarios? Are you unable to focus or be consistent? Do your thoughts not let you sleep at night?If yes, you might be an overthinker! While you might believe that continuing to think and rethink things that bother you is problem-solving, this habit of overthinking doesn`t usually provide any solution. Instead, overthinking creates more stress by focusing on the negative, dwelling on the past and worrying about your future. Overthinking is "a loop of unproductive thoughts" or "an excessive amount of unnecessary thoughts. It involves excessively thinking about a particular topic or situation and analysing it for long periods. When you overthink, you have a difficult time getting your mind to focus on anything else. Instead, it becomes consumed by the one thing you are thinking about. Though overthinking isn`t a recognised mental health condition, it can be a symptom of depression or anxiety. In addition, overthinking is commonly associated with Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD). GAD is characterised by the tendency to worry excessively about several things. <h2>What does overthinking look like? </h2>What happens is a chain effect. You`ll start worrying about one thing, and then you`ll be worried about something completely different. You might start worrying about work, and then you`ll start worrying about money. And that leads to worrying about losing your job. It becomes an endless circle. Overthinking might look like this: <ul><li>Worrying that jumps from one topic to the next.</li><li>Thinking of the worst-case scenario.</li><li>Struggling to make decisions, including second-guessing.</li><li>Trouble concentrating.</li><li>Feeling on edge.</li><li>Having a lot of negative thoughts</li><li>Seeking repeated reassurance from others.</li><li>An inability to think about anything else</li><li>Being unable to relax</li><li>Constantly feeling worried or anxious</li><li>Fixating on things outside of your control</li><li>Feeling mentally exhausted</li><li>Replaying an experience in your mind</li></ul> <h2>Why am I Overthinking? </h2> Overthinking is an automatic self-protection mechanism. What do you tend to overthink? You are likely focusing on everyday issues like finances, health, work, relationships, and purpose and meaning. Feeling in control of these different areas of life can lead to a sense of well-being, and you want the best for yourself. However, the deal here is that thinking about these in unproductive ways does little to improve them.? We do not overthink on purpose. Thoughts are often automatic and habitual, i.e., overthinking becomes a habit. We don`t lie down at night and think to ourselves, "Okay, time to overthink for the next two hours instead of falling asleep." Your brain does what it has done in the past. The main factors that lead to overthinking are stress and anxiety, which have become common issues in our times. Trauma is another potential cause of overthinking. Overthinking can happen to anybody, but those who have experienced any kind of trauma are especially vulnerable. Research tells us that trauma, like childhood abuse or neglect, for example, can alter the brain`s development to become stuck in a constant state of hypervigilance. This implies that our flight-or-fight response stays on high alert most of the time, scanning for any possible real or perceived danger. In this state, we may encounter obsessive or intrusive thoughts. Those who have perfectionist or obsessive tendencies and those who struggle to gain control — even amid a chaotic, uncontrollable situation — could also find themselves spiralling fast in thoughts. To put it in simpler words, the possible reasons you overthink can be your childhood learnings, the illusion of control and certainty, perfectionism, generalisation and the fear of conflict. <h2>What can you do to overcome your overthinking? </h2>Research shows that thinking less about a problem might be the key to developing better solutions. Here are a few ways to stop overthinking- <h3>Distract Yourself:</h3>Rather than constantly sitting and thinking about a problem, you can try distracting yourself for some time. For example, your brain may find healthier ways to work out a solution in the background while focusing on another task, like working in the garden or cooking a meal for yourself or a stroll in the park while listening to music you enjoy. Or you might "sleep on it" and realise that your brain solves the problem for you while you`re sleeping. A temporary distraction can give you a break and may get your mind focused on something more productive. Your brain might find a solution when you stop thinking about the problem. <h3>Challenge Negative Thoughts:</h3>Every thought you have will not be truthful, accurate, or even realistic. Remind yourself that your thoughts are not facts. Try reframing these thoughts more positively. When you find yourself overthinking, take exception to these thoughts, and ask yourself if they are logical. It can be strenuous initially but learning to call out your own overthinking can help you learn to replace negative thoughts with beneficial ones. <h3>Work on Your Interpersonal Skills:</h3>Studies have shown that improving your interpersonal skills can help stop you from overthinking since these skills significantly affect this particular habit. Ways to develop stronger interpersonal skills include: Practising self-control, increasing your self-awareness and boosting your self-confidence. <h3>Meditate:</h3>It can be an excellent tool for positively redirecting your thoughts. When you meditate, try focusing on your breath. The goal is not to make all your thoughts disappear but focus on something else and practice switching your focus whenever your thoughts wander. With time, you will find it unchallenging to control overthinking before it becomes a severe problem. For example, research says an effective way to stop invasive thoughts and worry is a 10-minute meditation break. <h3>Practice Self-Acceptance:</h3>Overthinking often springs from dwelling on past mistakes or worrying about things you cannot change. Instead of criticising yourself for things you might be sorry about, try working towards being more accepting and compassionate of yourself. Research suggests that people who offer themselves such compassion are more prone to use adaptive coping strategies. Strategies that can help you become more self-accepting include: <ul><li>Practising gratitude and thinking about the aspects of yourself that you appreciate</li><li>Developing a robust support system made up of people who can provide motivation and love</li><li>Forgive yourself for things you feel remorse about</li></ul> Get Therapy: If you can`t stop overthinking, you should consider getting professional help. It can be a symptom of a <a href="https://connectedminds.ai/blogs/bad-mental-health-signs" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">severe mental health issue</a>, like depression or anxiety. But, on the other side, it may also increase your vulnerability to developing mental health problems. A mental health professional will teach you skills that will help you stop obsessing, contemplating, and dwelling on thoughts that are not helpful. They will also help you identify coping strategies that work for you, such as mindfulness or physical exercise. You can reach out to a professional on the <a href="https://connectedminds.ai/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">connectedminds app</a>. It offers mental well-being content through podcasts, articles, posts and courses curated by expert psychologists. You can download <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.connectedminds.prod.release" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">connectedminds application for Android</a> as well as for <a href="https://apps.apple.com/us/app/connectedminds/id1612039449" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">iOS</a>. Overthinking can create a vicious cycle of stress and worry, ultimately making you feel less prepared, motivated or confident. In addition, it can play a role in mental health issues like anxiety and depression, so it is essential to find ways to break out of such destructive thought patterns and take care of your well-being.

Do you think that there is a mental disorder for overthinking? We'll clarify this and will also discuss what can you do to overcome your overthinking.

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