The Grief Spiral™

Working Through Grief.

Grief isn't a straight line. It's a spiral.

You may move forwards, backwards, upwards and around again — and that is normal.

Grief is not a straight line.

It is a spiral.

You may move forwards, backwards, upwards and around again — and that is normal.

You are not alone. You are deeply held.

On the spiral

From Trauma and Loss at the base, upward to Healing:

• Crying
• Shock
• Denial & disbelief
• Depression
• Numbness & Emptiness
• Questioning – Why?
• Bargaining
• Blaming God
• Self-imposed isolation
• Guilt or shame
• Pre-occupation
• Anger & bitterness
• Loneliness
• Anxiety & Panic
• Frustration
• Despair
• Low self-esteem
• Letting go
• Hope
• Deep sadness
• Self-doubt
• Remembering & reminiscing
• Restoration
• Ready for new relationships

Some stages of grieving may not apply, whilst others may occur more than once. Also, there is no certainty about the sequence of these stages of grieving.

Examples of foundational grief

Church betrayal — Lied about, rejected, slandered or harmed within a faith community.

Marriage breakdown — Divorce, separation or the end of a long relationship.

Loss of community — Losing friends, belonging, or the people who once felt like family.

Identity & calling shaken — When your role, purpose or ministry is taken away or undermined.

Career loss — Redundancy, business failure or major career changes.

Death of a loved one — Grieving the loss of someone who was a foundation in your life.

Abuse or trauma — Emotional, spiritual, physical or sexual abuse that has shattered safety.

Loss of faith or spiritual certainty — When your beliefs, trust in God, or sense of meaning is deeply shaken.

Major life changes — Relocation, empty nest, retirement, illness, disability or other life-altering events.

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Give yourself grace. Take the time you need.

Healing is possible, even when the path feels long.

Sharon Mackenzie · Spirit Led Counselling · www.spiritledcounselling.com

Spirit Led · Heart Held · Hope Restored · Healing Forward