Types of Loss

Explore the different types of losses that can lead to grief—including death, divorce, illness, and life transitions—and discover how each one uniquely shapes the grieving process.

Types of Loss

Loss is the absence or change of something meaningful in our lives. It can be tangible, like the death of a loved one or the loss of a home, or intangible, like losing a sense of identity, stability, or a dream for the future.

Loss isn't just about the physical separation from something—it also involves the emotional impact that follows. It can bring feelings of sadness, confusion, anger, or even relief, depending on the nature of what was lost. Some losses are sudden, while others happen gradually over time.

Every person experiences loss differently, shaped by their personal history, relationships, and coping mechanisms. And because loss comes in many forms—whether it’s losing a person, a place, a phase of life, or an idea—it also means that grief and healing take different paths for everyone.

Different types of losses people may experience

Personal Losses

  • Loss of a loved one (death of a family member, friend, or pet)
  • Loss of a relationship (breakup, separation, divorce)
  • Loss of health (due to illness, injury, or aging)
  • Loss of identity or self-worth (due to major life changes, trauma, or personal struggles)

Life Transitions

  • Loss of a job or career (retirement, redundancy, termination)
  • Loss of financial stability (bankruptcy, economic hardship)
  • Loss of home or security (eviction, displacement, natural disaster)
  • Loss of independence (due to illness, disability, or aging)

Emotional & Psychological Losses

  • Loss of trust (betrayal, deception, dishonesty)
  • Loss of dreams or future plans (unfulfilled goals, unrealized expectations)
  • Loss of innocence (exposure to hardship or trauma)
  • Loss of hope or purpose (depression, grief, existential struggles)

Social & Cultural Losses

  • Loss of community or belonging (moving away, losing friendships, cultural disconnection)
  • Loss of traditions or heritage (changing societal values, migration, generational shifts)
  • Loss of social status or reputation (scandal, life changes, societal rejection)
  • Loss of a mentor or guiding figure (death, estrangement, separation)

Getting Help

Referrals

Referrals to NALAG Grief Support are accepted through:

  • Self-Referral
  • GP’s
  • Mental Health
  • Hospitals

Early Response

The NALAG Early Response (ER) Team is dedicated to providing immediate support to individuals affected by sudden and unexpected incidents involving injury or death. Our trained volunteers and counsellors are here to help you navigate through the initial shock and trauma. 

Locations

NALAG Grief Support has branches in Dubbo, Mudgee, Hunter and Sydney regions. NALAG Head Office is located at 7 Welchman Street, Dubbo NSW 2830.

Cost

NALAG Grief Support is a not for profit organization funded by Western Area Health. NALAG Grief Support provides loss and grief support to all people regardless of race, religion and financial circumstances and provides Grief Support FREE of charge.

Hours

NALAG Grief Support may not be available around the clock. However, we understand the importance of being accessible when you need us most. Here are our current operating hours:

Dubbo Centre for Loss & Grief:

  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Excluding Public Holidays)
  • Appointments for other times may be negotiated.

Mudgee Centre for Loss & Grief:

  • Monday to Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM (Excluding Public Holidays)

While we strive to respond to inquiries as swiftly as possible within our operating hours, please feel free to reach out to us through our online contact form outside of these times. We will get back to you as soon as we can during our next business hours.

Due to the individual nature of the support person and client arrangement, times may be negotiated outside of office hours for online and telephone support. This can be discussed with your when you enquire for support.

How to Reach Us

Please contact us on 02 6882 9222 and our staff will be pleased to discuss your needs and answer any questions you may have.

NALAG Grief Support is UNABLE to provide a crisis service.

If you or someone you know needs urgent support, please contact a crisis support service such as:

  • Lifeline

    Lifeline

  • 13yarn

    BYARN

  • kidshelpline

    Kids Helpline

  • Beyondblue

    Beyond Blue

    Enter description text here.

Always call 000 (triple zero) in an emergency.

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