Whenever we have a loss, we experience grief. Because grief can be such a strong emotion, it can leave us feeling overwhelmed and confused. The Hospice Foundation of America offers this list of myths and realities about living with grief.

Myth 1: We only grieve deaths.
Reality: We grieve all losses.

Myth 2: Only family members grieve.
Reality: All who are attached grieve.

Myth 3: Grief is an emotional reaction.
Reality: Grief is manifested in many ways.

Myth 4: Individuals should leave their grieving at home.
Reality: We cannot control where we grieve.

Myth 5: We slowly and predictably recover from grief.
Reality: Grief is an uneven process, a roller coaster with no timeline.

Myth 6: Grieving necessitates detachment.
Reality: We never fully detach.

Myth 7: Grief finally ends.
Reality: Over time most people learn to live with their loss.

Myth 8: Grievers are best left alone.
Reality: Grievers need opportunities to share their memories and grief and to receive support.