ABSTRACT
People with painful histories may find the loss of a loved one or a job hard to tolerate. They may sink into feelings of hopelessness that is more persistent than the hopeless feelings of a normal grieving process. Sometimes a loss becomes complicated when it triggers past painful emotional states from previous losses that have gone ungrieved or were overwhelming. People who suffer from addiction and codependency may be more vulnerable because of the cumulative effect of their painful history. This chapter explores the warning signs of grief and loss and offers experiential exercises to mourn losses properly. It also explores the DBT skill of self soothe which helps a person stay grounded in their body and in the present moment and distracts them from the emotional pain they are experiencing.
