In this episode of the JPF First Aid Podcast, host John Fogarty speaks with Lynne Walsh, a counsellor specialising in bereavement, loss, and health-related issues. Drawing on her background in palliative care and counselling, Lynne offers compassionate insights into how people experience and cope with grief. The conversation explores the uniqueness of bereavement, the impact of resilience and vulnerability, and the importance of personalised support.

Key Takeaways

Grief is different for everyone. Each loss brings individual emotions based on the nature of the death, personal relationships, and life circumstances.

Bereavement doesn’t follow a set path. Some may feel worse after the first year as the reality of the loss sinks in.

Our past experiences, support systems, and overall wellbeing, including housing, finances, and mental health shape our ability to cope with loss.

Overworking, alcohol, or emotional suppression may offer temporary relief but can delay healing and increase pressure over time.

Key Moments

“We never get over the loss of someone significant; we adjust to a life without them.”

“There’s often relief after the first year of milestones, but sometimes that’s when the sadness deepens.”

“Staying busy might work for a while, but emotions can build up like pressure behind a dam.”

“The person struggling may not be who you expect; it’s important not to make assumptions.”

About the Guest

Lynne Walsh is a qualified, BACP-accredited counsellor with over 20 years’ experience, including work in palliative care and with a national bereavement organisation. With a background in nursing, she offers compassionate support across a wide range of issues, including grief, loss, illness, disability, carer support, and life transitions. Lynne creates a calm, safe space for clients and believes counselling can be life-changing, helping individuals make sense of their experiences and find a way forward, whatever challenges they face.

Connect with Lynne: https://www.bacp.co.uk/therapists/71282/lynne-walsh/burton-on-trent-de15

About the Host

John Fogarty has a training background dating back to 2005, with achievements including a teaching qualification and assessor standard. He has previously worked with two first aid charities, delivering sessions in workplace and educational environments.

John has consistently received excellent feedback for his delivery and customer service, as evident in numerous reviews. He ensures learners enjoy and achieve their goals, and works with customers to select the right courses and resolves any issues promptly.

Find out more at www.jpffirstaid.co.uk/

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