Grief: Lived Experience versus Professional Advice
The rise of social media has given individuals who have experienced loss a platform to share their grief journey and offer support to others.
Many of these individuals turn to social media as a way to express their feelings and possibly distract themselves from the pain they are experiencing. Some may even have a desire to help others who are going through similar experiences.
However, it is important to recognise that everyone's grief journey is unique.
Just because someone may post about their own experiences and offer advice or comfort, it does not necessarily mean that their methods will work for everyone.
In fact, blindly following the advice of someone else, especially if their approach is not helping them or others, can potentially make one's own grief worse.
One potential issue with relying solely on social media for support is that individuals may become overwhelmed by the sad experiences and stories shared by others. This bombardment of grief may not be helpful for someone who is already struggling with their own grief.
In addition, the individuals sharing their experiences online may not always be able to respond to every comment or offer the level of support that is needed.
In contrast, seeking professional help is recommended for those dealing with grief. The professionals listed on our Grief Specialists directory have the qualifications and expertise to provide assistance.
The articles shared on our website have professional input and are based on known and proven methods. These experts are also available to offer more personalised help beyond just reading an article.
It is important to recognise that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to grief. That is why there is a diverse range of experts available, as different methods and techniques work for different individuals.
Many of our Grief Specialists provide their services online, allowing individuals to access support regardless of their location. Additionally, many of these experts have personal experience with grief themselves, adding a unique perspective to their expertise.
So, while learned experience and social media can provide a sense of connection and support, it is important to approach the advice and experiences shared online with caution.
Seeking professional help from our qualified, expert Grief Specialists, who have proven methods, can offer more personalised and effective support for grievers who are navigating the complex journey of loss and grief.