Liberating Losses: When Death Brings Relief - Softcover

Elison, Jennifer; Mcgonigle, Chris

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0738209481 ISBN 13: 9780738209487

Publisher: Da Capo Lifelong Books, 2004

Synopsis

When someone dies, those left behind are expected to grieve. But, as taboo as it is to admit, not every death brings great sadness. Labeled "nontraditional grief response" by therapists and counselors, a positive reaction following a death is becoming more common, especially now that drugs and medical treatments keep people alive much longer than they or their families might wish. Sometimes we are relieved that our loved one is no longer suffering; at the other end of the spectrum, a death might finally free us of an abusive or unhappy relationship. In either case, the cultural expectation for sadness, loneliness, and despair only adds to the guilt and conflict felt by many "relieved grievers."Authors Jennifer Elison and Chris McGonigle have lived through their own "liberating losses." Illuminating for the first time a reaction that many deem insensitive, inappropriate, or strange, Ellison and McGonigle share their own and others' stories, thoughtful clinical analysis, and pragmatic counsel. Wise, compassionate, and groundbreaking, Liberating Losses expands the traditional definition of grief and, in so doing, generously validates the feelings that so many feel obliged to hide.

About this title

About the Author:

Jennifer Elison, Ed.D., has been a grief and transition counselor in private practice since 1990. She lives in Montana. Chris McGonigle, Ph.D., is the author of Surviving Your Spouse's Chronic Illness and has been a Widowed Persons Service volunteer for many years. She lives in Montana.

Review:

"Describe[s] anticipatory grief and share[s] the conflicting emotions people experience during extended illness and after a loved one dies." -- South Bend Tribune 02/24/04

"Like an affirming embrace." -- Counseling Today

"The book has tremendous value...offering insights and hope." -- Death Studies July 2004

About this edition

• Publisher: Da Capo Lifelong Books
• Publication date: 2004
• ISBN 10: 0738209481
• ISBN 13: 9780738209487
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240