Understanding the different types of grief and loss can help you identify your emotions and experiences more clearly[i].

Common types of grief and loss include:

• Ambiguous loss
• Anticipatory loss
• Disenfranchised loss
• Normal or Uncomplicated grief
• Prolonged or Complicated grief
• Loss of Half of Yourself

To learn more about grief and loss types, please visit:

Elizz – Palliative Care: Types of Grief and Loss

Canadian Psychological Association – Psychology Works Fact Sheets” Grief in Adults

[i] Gillette, H. (2022, December 19). What are the types of grief? Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/health/types-of-grief

After the loss of someone, the pain can often feel unimaginable, and how you cope may depend on many factors such as:

• Your available support systems
• Your culture and background
• Previous experiences with grief

Knowing that your feelings are valid in response to a significant loss is essential.

Dr. Patrick McGrath, a clinical psychologist and founder and president of 90Second Caregiver, provides a few coping strategies and tools for caregivers.

• Consider ways to express your feelings of grief, guilt, and fear, such as journaling or talking to someone who is part of your support system.
• Seek support and read our list on Grief Counselling Information, Toolkits, and Other Resources.
• Speak directly with another caregiver, share your experiences, and receive the emotional support that you need. Join our Peer Support Program.
• Contact the OCO Helpline and receive referrals to other support and resources.
• Connect with other caregivers; register for our Online Support Groups today.

Going back to work following the death of the person you are caring for can be challenging. As you re-enter your workplace, consider:

• What do you need right now? A listening ear, or someone to help with daily tasks? Medical, mental health, or emotional support?
• Ask: Who in your life can support you with those needs? What professionals do you need to seek out?

Communicate with your supervisor or human resources department about what you’re comfortable with sharing, how to manage conversations and any other concerns you may have. For help navigating these conversations, download our toolkit for caregivers in the workplace: Work and Caregiving: A balancing act Toolkit

• Learn what tools and accommodations are available through your workplace (employee assistance programs, flexible work arrangements, job sharing options, etc.).

Helpful Resources

Bereavement Leave – Published by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development (Ontario).

What is Grief? – Published by Manulife, and includes the section, “Make the return to work easier”.

Loss and Grief 

Someone you Care About is Grieving – Published by Workplace Strategies for Mental Health, from Canada Life.