Let's talk about the different dimensions of loss. Losing someone or something we care about is rocks our world. It messes with our emotions - we can feel sad, angry, guilty, relieved or that our grief is just not valid! Sometimes, all these feelings hit us at once, and other times, they come and go like waves at the beach.

Loss doesn't just mess with our feelings; it messes with our bodies too! That's the physical dimension of it. We might end up feeling tired, have trouble sleeping, lose our appetite, get headaches, or even catch colds more often. It's like our bodies are reacting to all that emotional pain we're going through.

Grief messes with our heads too – the cognitive part. It can be hard to concentrate or make decisions when we're dealing with loss. Sometimes, we get stuck in thoughts related to the loss, and it's difficult make the simplest of decisions or see a way forward.

Our behaviour changes too. That's the behavioural dimension. Some of us might withdraw from everyone, needing time alone to process things. Others might seek comfort in their friends and family, leaning on them for support. And then there are those who try to avoid anything that reminds them of their loss, just to escape the pain.

But you know what? It's not just about us; it's about our social connections too. When we're grieving, we might feel disconnected from others or have a hard time fitting into social situations. But having a support system can make all the difference. The love and understanding from friends and family can really help us get through the tough times.

Loss can also make us question things on a deeper level, like our beliefs and spirituality. It's that spiritual dimension of grief. Some people find comfort in their faith and beliefs, while others might struggle to make sense of it all.

There's no right or wrong way to grieve, we all handle it differently, and that's totally okay. Some people might bounce back faster, while others take more time, and that's all part of the process.

The most important thing is being there for each other during these tough times. Offering a shoulder to cry on, lending a listening ear, or just being present can mean the world to someone who's going through loss. It's about showing compassion, empathy and understanding, even if we might not fully grasp what they're going through.

So, the dimensions of loss – the emotional rollercoaster, the physical toll, the way it messes with our thoughts and behaviour, the impact on our social connections, and the deeper spiritual questions – they all make grief this complex and personal journey.

But remember, it's okay to seek help if it feels too overwhelming. Talking to a counsellor can be really beneficial when we're struggling with loss. They can guide us through the process and help us navigate all these dimensions of grief.

Loss is a part of life, and we'll all face it at some point. But by acknowledging and understanding the various dimensions of loss, we can offer better support to ourselves and those around us, helping us find healing and meaning in our journey of grief.