Why does grief feel so lonely?

This Complex Life

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Have you ever wondered why grief feels so isolating?

Many people expect grief to follow a straight path, something to "move on" from after a set amount of time. The reality is far more complex. In this episode, I sit down with psychologist and grief researcher Liam Spicer to explore what grief is, the myths that surround it, and how we can better support ourselves and others through loss.

Grief is a universal human experience, yet so many of us struggle to talk about it openly. In this conversation, Liam shares insights from his work and personal experiences, breaking down common misconceptions about grief and bereavement. We discuss how grief extends beyond the loss of a loved one, why there’s no "right way" to grieve, and the role of connection in healing.

Key Takeaways

Grief isn’t something you "get over"—it changes shape, but it doesn’t disappear.
There’s no single timeline or correct way to grieve. Everyone’s experience is unique.
Grief isn’t just about death—it can be triggered by life changes, lost opportunities, or even a shift in identity.
Societal expectations can make grief harder by pressuring people to “move on” too quickly.
Supporting someone who is grieving doesn’t mean having the perfect words—sometimes, just showing up is enough.
Guilt about feeling happy again is common, but it doesn’t mean you’ve forgotten your loved one.
There are ways to maintain a connection with someone you’ve lost, which can help with healing.

Resources

Australian Centre for Grief and Bereavement – Fact sheets, resources, and support for grief.
The Grieving Brain by Mary-Frances O'Connor – A science-based look at how grief affects us.
It's OK That You're Not OK by Megan Devine – A compassionate guide for navigating grief.
Liam Spicer’s Website- Find out more about Liam's work and research Liam’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/liamspicer_/ [email protected]

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