In the Presence of Grief

Book excerpt: Illuminating the impact of loss and grief on our psychological and emotional lives, this book provides vital guidance to ease painful transitions and facilitate healing. The author emphasizes that dealing with the death of a loved one involves more than picking up the pieces and moving on: rather, healing is an ongoing journey on which grief is a constant companion. For those in a supportive role, the focus is on helping the bereaved to navigate the grieving process and, ultimately, to reclaim joy as well as sadness as an integral part of life. Filled with personal narratives and examples, the book demonstrates effective ways to help survivors cope with commonly experienced issues, problems, and concerns. Clinical psychologists, family therapists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors working with families; physicians and nurses in palliative care settings; hospice professionals. While written for professionals, the book's sensitive coverage of universal themes also makes it suitable for general readers.