When Grief Keeps Coming: Finding Steadiness in the Midst of Loss

In the few short days since we shared our last post on grief and loss, the BC community has suffered another heartbreaking loss — another colleague gone too soon.

If you’re reading this, you may be feeling a mix of emotions that are hard to name. Maybe it’s disbelief. Maybe it’s anger. Maybe it’s just… exhaustion. When loss keeps happening, one after another, grief can start to feel less like a wave and more like a constant undertow.

It’s okay if you’re struggling to make sense of it all.
It’s okay if you feel numb.
It’s okay if you don’t know what to say anymore.

Repeated loss does something to the nervous system. It can blur time, flatten emotion, and make it hard to stay connected — even with people you care about. That’s not because you don’t care; it’s because your system is overwhelmed.

If this latest loss has left you feeling untethered, here are a few reminders:

• You don’t need to “bounce back.” Grief takes time and energy — both of which are in short supply right now.

• Lean on small connections. A check-in text, a walk with a colleague, a quiet moment with someone who understands.

• Watch for signs of overload. Trouble sleeping, irritability, shutting down, or feeling detached can all be signs your system needs care.

• Let yourself pause. Even a few deep breaths between calls, or a moment of stillness, can help your body know you’re safe right now.

The BCEHS family has endured an unimaginable amount of loss this year. You are not weak for feeling tired or for needing extra support. Grief of this magnitude asks for gentleness — with yourself, and with each other.

If you need a space to talk, reflect, or simply breathe for a bit, maybe counselling is worth a go. You don’t have to carry this alone.

Reach out when you’re ready. We’re here.
Trauma-informed therapy for first responders and helping professionals