What Kind of Griever Are You? – Part 1

Apr 14, 2011 by Victoria Noe, in Friend Grief , Grief , grieving styles , intuitive grieving

There is no one way to grieve.

There is no right way to grieve.

Everyone experiences grief in different ways.

Some people let themselves grieve in a physical way. Some clinicians refer to them as “intuitive” grievers. Another word for this type of griever could be “emotional”. Their grief is on display, not held back.

Intuitive grievers express feelings that are intense. Crying is probably the most common expression, and it mirrors how they are feeling.

Typically, in our culture, expressing grief in this way is considered a female response, rather than male. That also can imply weakness.

Crying is not the only physical manifestation of grief for an emotional griever. They may experience prolonged periods of confusion, inability to concentrate, disorganization, and disorientation. Their physical exhaustion and anxiety may be obvious.

This description may fit you, or someone you know. If it does, rest assured that you are not alone.

Well-meaning others may try to force you to stop expressing yourself this way. Let yourself grieve at your own pace. It’s healthy and right for you.

We’ll consider other grieving styles in future posts.

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Victoria Noe

Award-winning Author, Speaker, Activist