Blog for Better Living

Grief in the Public Media: Mourning the Loss of ‘Glee’ Star Cory Monteith

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | July 17, 2013

Grief is in the news this week with the death of 31-year old ‘Glee’ actor Cory Monteith who passed away Saturday, July 13th of an overdose of heroin and alcohol. The Canadian-born actor, who played Finn Hudson on the Fox TV series about a high school glee club, has touched thousands of lives with his […]

Grief

Normal or Not? The Distinction between Grief and Depression

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | July 5, 2013

Recently a client came to my office following the death of her husband. When asked what brought her to therapy, she responded by saying her adult children had suggested she come. “Why?” I asked, for which she replied, “They are worried that I might be depressed.” In fact, many people who are grieving a loss […]

Grief

Terror At The Finish Line: Understanding Trauma Reaction After The Boston Marathon Attacks

By: Other | May 29, 2013

Written by Fabiola Figueroa, Ph.D. The culture of athletic events has developed over the course of thousands of years. Athleticism has been defined and viewed as a sign of physical strength and incredible focus. Some say that certain athletes are on the verge of being superheroes. Over time, athleticism has come to be viewed as […]

Grief, Therapy

Therapy Changes Joins the San Diego Victim Assistance Coordinating Council in Recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | April 23, 2013

Each April since 1981, the US Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) has recognized National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to honor crime victims and those who advocate on their behalf. This year’s Crime Victims’ Week will be April 21-27. The theme is “New Challenges; New Solutions.” This theme reflects both the progress that has been […]

Grief, Stress

Child Concepts of Death

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | March 20, 2013

The loss of a loved through death one can be an extraordinarily difficult time for everyone in the family. For children, this can also be a time of confusion and fear. Depending on a child’s age, he or she may not fully understand the concept of death and not yet realize that death is permanent. […]

Children, Grief

What To Say When Words Are Never Enough: Comforting Others in Grief

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | March 7, 2013

When someone close to you experiences a loss or tragedy, words are never enough. As a caring friend you may find yourself at a loss of what to do or say in the face of a loved one’s grief. During these times it is helpful to know that there is nothing that you can “do” […]

Grief

Coping with Grief and Loss

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | February 8, 2013

Grief is a profound and universal experience. It is a journey where we remember our loved ones who have died and adjust to a life without them. During this process we have the potential to learn more about ourselves and work towards rebuilding meaning and purpose in our lives. When coping with a death of […]

Grief