Loss is inevitable so how can we work through our losses

Bad things happen. It’s inevitable isn’t it?

When faced with a loss of some sorts, for example, loss of money, job, loved ones, independence, relationships, or good health, we may recognize the following stages that we can experience in ourselves. 

1. Disbelief. 
2. Stress with fight/flight responses. 
3. Acceptance and “at peace” with the loss. 
4 Adaptation with possible post traumatic growth. 

Asking what stage/s we are mainly in is an important question. 

Most problematic scenarios including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and adjustment disorders, occur when we are “stuck” in stage two with the flight/fight responses. It’s very emotionally draining. 

Once we realize that the “fight or flight” response is ineffective for moving forward, we can consider an alternative path of acceptance, assertiveness, and growth. 

Consider pivoting for emotional acceptance in stage 3, and creating a value driven life that we want in stage 4, with our new founded insights and experiences. 

Stage 4 is our post traumatic growth.  It’s the alternative to post traumatic distress.