This essay aimed to define, identify and clarify what Grief and Loss is; always with the role of the paramedic in mind. Grief is defined as a reaction to a serious loss. This loss could be a loss of a person close to another, significant belonging(s) or situation, generally summed up as “Change of Life’. Every human being is affected by grief, and every human being reacts differently to each situation. Paramedics need to be aware that grief is a natural response, and cannot be stopped from one to another. Grief is displayed differently in every culture. The griever must live through grief, in order to get through grief. Educating the griever, the supporting people (family and friends) as well as the broader community on how to deal with grief and grieving is an important part of harm minimisation

Grief occurs in response to the loss of someone or something. The loss may involve a loved one, a job, or possibly a role (student entering the workplace or employee entering retirement). Anyone can experience grief and loss. It can be sudden or expected; however, individuals are unique in how they experience this event. Grief, itself, is a normal and natural response to loss. There are a variety of ways that individuals respond to loss. Some are healthy coping mechanisms and some may hinder the grieving process. It is important to realize that acknowledging the grief promotes the healing process. Time and support facilitate the grieving process, allowing an opportunity to appropriately mourn this loss.