Learning modules
Activity 1: Responses to loss
Loss is a universal aspect of life-limiting illnesses. People with life-limiting illnesses and their families, caregivers and friends must adapt to the many changes in their lives. They need to cope with loss of health, function, mobility, future potential, and dreams. They also need to cope with death.
The following responses may occur not only at diagnosis. They can occur as the person experiences other changes as his/her disease progresses.
Some common psychological and social responses to loss, include:
- sadness
- anger
- fear
- distress
- despair
- disbelief
- anxiety
- guilt
- worrying thoughts
- sleep disturbances
- social withdrawal
- decreased ability to maintain an organised lifestyle. [1]
REFERENCES
1. Palliative Care Expert Group. (2010). Loss, grief and bereavement. In: Therapeutic guidelines: palliative care. Version 3. Melbourne: Therapeutic Guidelines Limited
Thinking points
Thinking points
Activity 1: Responses to loss
Think of a situation where you have experienced loss. It may be the loss of a relationship, object, or loss of ability to do something you used to be able to do.
- Write a short paragraph about your loss. Consider the following questions:
a) How did the loss make you feel? Consider both the physical and emotional responses you may have experienced.
b) How did you deal with your feelings?
c) Has thinking about the loss here triggered uncomfortable emotions? If so, what has led you to respond in this way?
Please see your lecturer after the session if you need to talk things through in more detail.
