Loss is a reality we all face in life, that’s the dark side of love and connections. I lost my Mam two years ago. That is when I truly understood the impact of loss and grieving. Initially I was in shock, although my Mam hadn’t been well for many years, this was something I learned to cope with. The news of her death was not something I expected. I don’t think you can ever be prepared for those words.
Personal Journey
After about a month of tears I started reading about grief online. In an effort to understand what I should expect. While I found the steps of grief a help to read about, I also discovered that grief is an extremely personal journey. More importantly, it doesn’t have to be a lonely one.
A natural reaction to loss
The reality of grief is that you may feel alone. Opening up and sharing your feelings is without a doubt the best healing. It does not take the pain of loss away but it does make it easier to bear. There were days when I would feel numb and removed from daily life. The feeling of guilt if I caught myself enjoying a moment. This is when I realised talking things through with a friend or family member or in a support group has so many benefits. It can help ease that feeling that you’re in this on your own. Even if the person can’t relate to what you’re going through, it can feel reassuring to just know the support is there
Forever feel the empty space left
The pain of a loss does get easier to manage as time passes but we will forever feel the empty space our loved ones once filled up. An emptiness that I now know is there as a reminder of her place in my life. And while we can’t control the process, talking to others can help with the processing of all the emotions we experience through grief.
If you need to talk about your feelings of loss and find tips to help you through your grief, Turn2Me is here to support you every step of the way. Sign up to our Grief Support Group, every Friday at 6pm