Bereavement and loss affects us all.

Whether it's a family member, partner, friend or pet, losing someone close to us can be devastating and confusing time with mixed emotions, such as, shock, denial, sadness, anger, relief, anxiety, depression, guilt, bargaining, and feeling overwhelmed.

It can also have physical effects, such as, sleep issues, changes to appetite, health issues and withdrawing from others.

Bereavement affects us all differently - there is no right or wrong way to grieve.

I wonder if you are thinking, 'Why do I still feel this way?' 'When will it stop hurting so much?' 'I don't want to bother people with my feelings, they have moved on.' You are not broken, you are grieving. What happens over time is that we still feel the loss, we still miss them, but we adjust our lives around the loss. You may have good days and start enjoying life again but hit by a wave of grief on other day, which is normal.

Your feelings matter! Whether it's about the memories or how you losed them, you need to keep talking, allow yourself time, and be kind to yourself.

As the holiday season approaches, we remember all those moments we had together and feel that strong sense of loss or even loneliness - it can be tough.

It is important to get the right support short term and long term, by connecting with others (friends & family), groups that are bereaved, talking to a therapist and take care of your physical health.

Grief can also come from a change in circumstances, such as ending of a relationship, job loss, moving to a new location, decline in physical or mental health, your experience of grief is valid.

If you need support or counselling, please do not hesitate to contact me on 07477 167624.

Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of.

When thinking about mental illness, whether it is anxiety, depression, is not because you are a failure or weak, it is a sign that you are struggling a bit and can be a time where we need to take stock, rest, add in more self-care and possibly reach out for the help and support you need - this is ok. We are all human!

This time of year, the news, cost of living and other aspects of life can feel daunting.

If it means taking hour by hour or day by day, you are getting through them. Don't give up!