Time doesn't heal all wounds when it comes to complicated grief.
For countless individuals, complicated grief and alcohol abuse go hand-in-hand, Tragic loss reminds us of how little is actually in our control, and how time is truly limited. Even normal, expectable losses can prove devastating when they make us question the direction of our lives.
Complicated grief involves more than "going through the stages of grief" or counting down the days until healing will suddenly occur. Grief is a body experience. Many turn to alcohol for temporary relief.
You may avoid talking to people about your loss because you sense that it makes them uncomfortable. This creates a second loss - social isolation.
Is it any wonder that complicated grief leads to secondary alcohol use?
Grief becomes complicated when circumstances such as legal issues, family problems, or work stress interfere with grieving. Complications draw the grieving process out by months and years.
The temptation for many is to isolate, withdraw, or abuse drugs and alcohol. It doesn't help when people give you cliche advice, like telling you to "just cry," or "get over it."
Counseling can help. Our experienced Chicago alcohol counselors can empower you to feel connected to your life while honoring your loss. It's time to heal.
Heal in a supportive space.
Our experienced counselors are here to guide you along the path through your grief towards healing. We use the latest research and evidence-based strategies to help you grieve.
You can honor the pain of loss in healthy ways. Our counselors are here to help. You don't need a book or cliche advice. You deserve a space to process the pain of grief with love and compassion.
You are not alone. We are here to help you heal. Let's get started - call or text (312) 715-8234.
Counseling Techniques Used for Complicated Grief
We are trained in evidence-based approaches to help you find your direction and achieve your desired outcomes. Our treatment methods include:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is an effective, research-based technique to help people resolve and heal from trauma. It is highly effective for people who have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is also effective as an approach to help you maintain behavior change when you are facing feelings of distress on a day-to-day basis or anxiety about the future.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
ACT is an evidence-based form of cognitive behavior therapy that strategically helps you create the life you want to live. This happens by removing obstacles that are leaving you feeling stuck in a rut. ACT uses your personal values as the foundation of change.
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
MBCT helps you alleviate feelings of depression and unhappiness. The approach of MBCT reduces overwhelming stress while enhancing your self-awareness. By combining mindfulness practice with cognitive therapy, MBCT encourages you to develop a new relationship with negative thoughts and feelings, restoring your energy so you can effectively manage your life.
Addiction and Trauma Recovery
Addiction and Trauma Recovery is a dual approach where your counselor offers respect, transparency, and collaboration as a foundation of healing. Trauma-informed addiction recovery helps you understand the connection between self-destructive behaviors and complex trauma. Your counselor works with you on the goals you determine, empowering you to make healthy changes in your present-day life.