In the 1980 movie Ordinary People Timothy Hutton plays Conrad Jarrett a teenager consumed with unimaginable grief and torment following the accidental death of his older brother Buck in a boating accident. The movie not only explores Conrad's palatable sadness but his anger as well at Buck for dying and himself for living. Through the help of his therapist in the movie played by Judd Hirsch, Conrad slowly comes to terms with his feelings and begins a path of healing. In trying to come up with a movie for this section I chose Ordinary People not only because of it's powerful depiction of Conrad's grief but also for it's portrayal of the differing ways him and his parents grieve this unimaginable loss.

Grief is the emotional response to any type of loss. Perhaps of a loved one due to death or divorce, but also the loss of a job, a pet, financial stability, or safety after trauma. Feelings of grief can be overwhelming, and it can be hard to know how to manage and overcome these emotions. It is important to have patience with yourself and others during this process as it is a healthy part of healing. If you are having trouble coping on your own, or know of someone who could use extra support, a therapist can assist.

There is no orderly process of passing through stages of anger, denial and acceptance. Everyone experiences loss differently based on their personality, culture, and beliefs, among many other factors.

Common symptoms of grief include:

• Shock and disbelief: feeling numb about the event, having trouble believing it happened, denying it, or expecting to suddenly see the person you lost.
• Sadness: crying, or having feelings of emptiness, despair, yearning, or loneliness.
• Guilt: regret over things unsaid or undone, feeling responsible for the death or the event, or shame from feeling relieved by a person’s passing.
• Anger: blaming someone for injustice.
• Fear: feelings of anxiety, helplessness, and insecurity, or having panic attacks.
• Physical symptoms: fatigue, nausea, weight loss or gain, aches and pains, and insomnia.

Coping with Grief and Loss

An important part of healing is knowing that you are not alone. Seek support from your friends, family, or faith, or join a bereavement support group. Sharing your loss can make the grieving process easier. Remember to take care of yourself; to eat, sleep, and exercise even when you’re too stressed or fatigued to do so. A healthy alternative is to seek the help of a professional therapist. A therapist can help you work through your intense emotions in a safe environment.

(Image by: Gadiel Lazcano via Unsplash)

(If You are Curious to see the movie
M(Image by: Gadiel Lazcano via Unsplash)