Good Mourning

Finding a Path Through Loss

Kenneth J. Doka Ph.D.

Is There a Right to Grieve?

Some losses simply are not recognized by others. How can we enfranchise "disenfranchised grief"?

What Do the Holidays Mean to You?

When we grieve, we may dread the thought of the holidays. But others may find it a welcome diversion.

Give Children a Choice to Be an Active Part of the Funeral

Children can do more than attend funerals—here's how families can offer them opportunities for involvement.

Should Children Attend Funerals?

At what age should a child be permitted to attend a funeral? The real key is to empower children to make a choice.

Where Are My Beliefs When I Need Them Most?

Struggling with your beliefs after loss? Find your sources of spiritual strength.

Can You Be Stuck in Grief?

Even if we seem stuck in grief, there are ways to continue our journey with loss.

Choosing Growth after Grief

We can learn a great deal from those who seem to grow despite a significant losss

Dealing with the Death of a Child

Do parents soon divorce after a child dies? What effects does the death of a child have on family systems? How can families cope with such a traumatic loss?

Those Sneaky Spring Holidays

While we often realize that the winter holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Hanukkah can trigger grief, but the many holidays of Spring can take mourners by surprise.

Is There a Right to Grieve?

Some losses simply are not recognized by others. How can we enfranchise disenfranchised grief?

If Only

Guilt can take many forms in grief. Yet, whatever form it takes can complicate grief.

Complicated Grief Is Complicated

The DSM-5 now recognizes that grief can be complicated. Yet more changes are likely in the future

Finding Balance: Coping With Grief During the Holidays

Can we celebrate the holidays when we are in the midst of grief? The key is suggested by a current theory of the grieving process.

Grieving the Death of an Adult Child

Losing a child is tough at any age but it can be especially hard when the child is an adult.

Can we do too well in grief?

Can we do too well after a loss? We need to acknowledge resilient grievers.

Identity Can Change Even After Death

Identity is not fixed at death—some times new information or values can change the way an individual is perceived even long after their death. This can deeply affect grief.