Losing someone or something profoundly meaningful fills the space that once promised more hellos with the agonizing emptiness of having said a final goodbye. In the aftermath of impactful Loss, the persistence of sorrow, heartache, and pain permeates the body, mind, and soul. Getting through a single day in the early stages of Grief feels like trying to walk through waist-high mud while carrying heavy weights—an uphill battle. Numbness offers some relief while waves of anguish come crashing without notice, triggered by familiar songs, scents, and empty rooms. Loneliness swirls, although loving friends surround survivors. Achieving understanding remains difficult when the story no longer makes sense, left unfinished mid-sentence without the person meant to be beside you in the next chapter and all those after. 1
When painful Grief persists extensively without expected improvement over the first six months, clinical diagnoses become necessary to guide appropriate interventions. Mental health professionals assess complex, prolonged Grief reactions for depth relative to cultural and social norms through interviews, questionnaires, and reviews of functioning levels across major life domains.
They identify coexisting conditions like major depression and post-traumatic stress that may require simultaneous treatment for comprehensive healing. Maladaptive coping in the form of self-medication with food, alcohol, or other substances often co-occurs. Exploring family patterns of Grief provides additional contextual clues on the primary diagnosis and optimal, personalized next steps to reconcile the Loss.3
At Cornerstone, we understand Grieving is an intensely personal journey that follows no rigid timeline. That’s why our Arizona treatment centers in Scottsdale and Phoenix offer customized Grief and Loss therapy integrating research-backed modalities with holistic creative practices to nurture mind, body, and spirit. Our compassionate team has developed tailored plans for individuals and families struggling with the loss of a loved one, divorce, career shifts, and other wrenching life transitions. Whether participating in intensive outpatient or residential programs, you will find refuge, hope, and a judgment-free space for processing complex feelings. New coping skills and meaning-making emerge through a combination of talk therapies, mindfulness, and creative expression support groups. If the ups and downs of profound Loss have started to drown your days, we remain anchored in sensitivity and understanding. You don’t have to walk this long road home alone when we can safely guide the way.
Lionel, a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) with over 4 years at Cornerstone, specializes in addiction and mental health. Trained in EMDR therapy, he employs a trauma-informed, empathetic approach to address underlying causes of these issues.
Here are some signs that it may be time to consider inpatient or residential treatment for Grief and Loss:
The compassionate care and focused treatment available in an inpatient or residential Grief program can help stabilize symptoms and shift the Grieving process in a healthier direction when outpatient options prove insufficient. Speaking with a therapist can help determine the appropriate next level of care.
Here are some ways you can help support a Grieving loved one who needs treatment:
The compassion of loved ones eases Grieving treatment through this challenging journey full of unpredictable setbacks and strides forward. With time and care, hope persists.
Our admissions specialists are here to explain the process, answer any questions you may have, and ensure you’re getting the help you need to live a healthy life free from addiction.
Call and speak with one of our caring team members about help for you or a loved one.
