Losing a parent is one of life’s most profound challenges. Regardless of people’s relationships with their parents, the loss is complicated and often felt deeply. The emotional intensity can feel overwhelming.
If you’re facing this difficult time, remember that you are not alone. There is warmth in the solace others can provide and in the small, caring steps you can take for yourself. Below, we provide some warm advice for coping with the death of a parent, designed to ease your journey through this difficult terrain.
Take Your Time
Grieving is individualistic and nonlinear—some people heal sooner than others. Therefore, it’s important to allow yourself to experience your grief in your own way and time. There is no rush.
In fact, the process cannot be hurried. If you attempt to bypass your grief, it will likely catch up with you later. The time you spend grieving is not wasted; it’s a necessary investment in your emotional well-being.
Understand and Lean Into Your Feelings
The emotions following a loss are often complicated. If you understand the stages of grief, you can help yourself understand what you’re feeling and why, which is helpful for moving forward.
Additionally, remember that your feelings are valid, no matter what they are. It’s important to identify and acknowledge each feeling rather than stifling or ignoring them. By doing so, you affirm yourself and the uniqueness of your relationship with your parent.
Try Journaling
If you’re struggling to identify your feelings, try getting them out on paper. Just write and see what comes up.
Seek Professional Counseling
A professional counselor or therapist can provide an unbiased, supportive space to unpack your thoughts and feelings regarding your loss. They can also provide you with the tools you need to understand, manage, and process your feelings in a healthy, healing way.
Practice Self-Care
Grief can make self-care take a backseat for many people. However, neglecting the needs of your mind and body can exacerbate negative feelings and thoughts.
Simply taking time each day to move a little and prepare nutritious meals can help a lot. Likewise, performing relaxing activities—like meditation or a favorite hobby of yours—can help keep you grounded and calm.
Ultimately, self-care takes many forms, so do what works for you in the capacity that you’re able to do it following the loss.
Let People Help
Many people internalize struggles related to loss, but this can be isolating. If you have a network of friends or family you trust, it’s okay to accept and even request their help.
Your loved ones might be able to bring you meals, complete household chores, or simply talk. Engaging your support can help you feel loved and capable during this difficult time, and it can strengthen these relationships.
While the journey through grief is deeply personal, you don’t have to travel it alone. Take your time, seek support, and care for yourself through the process. Eventually, you can come to terms with the loss and find your way to a healthier, empowered mindset.