Includes bibliographical references (p. 267-277) and index

Introduction -- Understanding death, dying, and bereavement -- When death comes unannounced -- When death is anticipated -- When the question of euthanasia emerges -- When a child dies -- When a sibling dies -- When a parent dies -- When a spouse dies -- When an extended family member or friend dies -- Creating funerals, ceremonies, and other healing rituals -- Searching for meaning -- Reclaiming joy

The Contexts of Grief -- Grief in the Context of Therapy

Illuminating the impact of loss and grief on our psychological and emotional lives, this book provides vital information to ease painful transitions and facilitate healing. The author emphasizes that dealing with the death of a loved one involves more than picking up the pieces and moving on: rather, survivors live indefinitely in the presence of grief. For those in a supportive role, the focus is on helping the bereaved to navigate the grieving process and, ultimately, to reclaim joy as well as sadness as an integral part of life. The book explores pathways to recovery from different kinds of loss, including the death of a child, sibling, parent, spouse, or extended family member or friend, as well as challenges that may emerge around care of the dying and issues at the end of life. Personal accounts and therapeutic case material are interwoven with practical suggestions for helping individuals and families share their stories, find meaning in their experience, and create funerals and other rituals