A Question Options

[Ruth]

Hello again. Things aren't going as well as I had anticipated or hoped. It's been 10 days since my little boy passed away, but while I'm in the house I'm still not getting more than a couple of minutes relief in any one go.

I guess this is 'normal', and it is early days yet but it is making life very hard. I'm not looking forward to going home tonight - why are the evenings so very long when they used to flash by! I'm not looking forward to the weekend and the only thing I'm looking forward to at the moment is the passing of time knowing I'll feel better eventually.

Anyway, I noticed some telephone numbers for pet bereavement counsellors and was wondering whether I should try one. Have any of you have ever used one and did you find it helpful? Believe me, this is sooooo not me and if I had someone to talk to I wouldn't entertain the idea. To even consider this seems barmy and makes me cringe. I certainly would never mention it to anyone else for fear of being locked up!

Any advice would be gratefully received.

[gingerspal]

Dear Ruth,
I completely agree with the other posters! An in-person grief counselor is a wonderful idea. I honestly felt like I was "LOSING IT" when I had to deal with Ginger's demise. And I had some support since I live with my significant other AND another cat! You, on the other hand, live on your own and your full time at-home companion was Duke...so if these things are at all quantifiable, certainly you are the hardest hit! A friend of mine here at Lightning strike is sharing some online grief counseling sessions with me and I find them valuable. For you though it seems like a session in the flesh might be preferred. I hope you do follow up on this because working through your grief should not be downplayed or glossed over. It is a process and a challenge that you should make a top priority!
I am thinking of you and you have my complete support (as everyone's here!)
love,
Patti