Understanding Grief and Finding Meaning

In this TED interview, Cloe Sasha Brooks talks with David Kessler about dealing with difficult feelings, focusing on grief. Kessler introduces the sixth stage of grief, finding meaning, and discusses seven factors that guide this process. He emphasizes that grief is personal and non-linear, and highlights the importance of post-traumatic growth. The conversation also covers how to explain grief to others, the unique challenges children face, and the future of collective grief post-pandemic. Kessler advises seeking support and understanding that emotions are not permanent.

What is the sixth stage of grief introduced by David Kessler?

• Denial

• Finding Meaning

• Bargaining

• Acceptance

Which of the following is NOT one of the seven factors of meaning in grief?

• Only you can find your meaning

• Meaning takes time

• Meaning requires understanding

• Meaning is relative and personal

According to David Kessler, why should we avoid comparing griefs?

• Because it helps in understanding grief better

• Because it makes grief less painful

• Because all griefs are the same

• Because it invalidates personal experiences

What is the goal of post-traumatic growth?

• To make grief smaller

• To forget the loss

• To grow around the grief

• To avoid grief

How can we model healthy grief for children?

• By hiding our emotions

• By avoiding discussions about loss

• By pretending everything is fine

• By grieving fully and living fully

Why is it important to be honest with children about loss?

• Because they won't understand otherwise

• Because euphemisms can confuse them

• Because it makes them feel better

• Because it helps them forget the loss

What does David Kessler hope we retain after the pandemic?

• The ability to have conversations about grief

• The ability to ignore grief

• The ability to forget losses

• The ability to avoid difficult feelings

What should you do if you are struggling with grief?

• Reach out and get support

• Ignore your feelings

• Pretend to be happy

• Isolate yourself

What is a common misconception about feelings during grief?

• Feelings are unimportant

• Feelings are permanent

• Feelings should be ignored

• Feelings are temporary

What words does David Kessler suggest removing from our vocabulary when dealing with grief?

• Pain and Suffering

• Grief and Loss

• Always and Never

• Happy and Sad