Disenfranchised grief is a term coined by Dr. Kenneth J. Doka in 1989. The concept describes the fact that some forms of grief are not acknowledged on a personal or societal level. When someone is not socially recognized as a person who has a right to mourn, this can lead to more severe and prolonged grief reactions. These reactions can include physical symptoms as well as anxiety and depression. Oftentimes, a person will avoid seeking support because our world tells them it isn’t warranted.  Sorrow is valid, whether a loss is openly acknowledged, socially sanctioned, publicly mourned or not. This type of grief often leaves individuals feeling isolated and unsupported, and should never be minimized or overlooked.

Some examples of disenfranchised grief are:

• Unrecognized Relationships: Grief resulting from the death of an ex-spouse, a partner in an extramarital affair, or a close friend may not be socially acknowledged.
• Stigmatized Losses: Deaths due to suicide, overdose, or homicide can be met with judgment, leading to a lack of support for the bereaved. 
• Non-Death Losses: Experiences such as miscarriage, job loss, divorce, or the loss of a pet are often not recognized as legitimate causes for grief. 

Your grief is legitimate.

I am here to witness. I am a safe and nonjudgmental space holder for you to express your feelings and emotions, allowing you to move forward and find your joy again in a healthy way. I will help you access your own resources as well as the resources of the natural world. Together, we will identify your personal path to help you cope with your loss and navigate the complexities of disenfranchised grief.