This book is about the small and large losses that happen to people, experiences that plunge them into a state of adjustment. It guides those moving through the mourning process and those who are struggling with depression and other symptoms of distress as they start to realize that they are grieving their loss. It is also for the families and friends of those who have suffered a loss.

The kinds of losses discussed include deaths and divorces; injuries to oneself and others; loss of jobs, health, and security from the economy, accidents, terrorist acts, or on the battlefield. The book guides its readers through the healing process, through the hurts, through the depression, through the anger and blame, back to the hope of a fulfilling life.