How to Deal with the Loss of a Parent
The healing after such a loss is a long, hard, and painful road with many bumps and detours. But there are a few things that seem to help with the grief and the pain associated with it. These suggestions will not lessen the pain, but they will make it easier to withstand.
Allowing oneself to lean on other family members or friends for support is key. No one should try to go through a loss like this alone. Let others help with day-to-day tasks and talk to them about the feelings of pain, sadness, anger, and loneliness. Some folks expect themselves to be able to get right back into daily routines immediately, but that expectation is not realistic.
Talk about the lost parent. Recount funny stories and talk about the characteristics that made him/her a great parent. Get together with siblings and talk about the past. Make every effort to share memories with younger family members so that the past will live on.
Honor the parent's memory by paying attention to things that were important to him/her. For example, if dad was a nature lover, plant a tree in his honor. If mom loved the arts, make a donation to a local theater group. Keep their passions alive.
Write letters to the lost loved one. It can be very difficult at first to not be able to share current news with them, so put it in a letter. This is also helpful if there were things left unsaid or unfinished business. Of course, it isn't as comforting as a face-to-face visit, but it does help.
Work diligently to keep an active spiritual life during this difficult time. Prayer and meditation are indispensable every day, but even more so while experiencing a devastating loss. Prayer is comforting and will produce a sense of calmness.
Crying when the urge hits is also important. Never try to hold in feelings of sadness, pain, anger, or loneliness. Always feel free to cry, as tears contain healing power.
Have faith that the pain will eventually subside, and life will go on. It will be different, but it will be good again in time.
Published by keverett
Writing, reading, and watching classic movies are my favorite hobbies. Writing is not only a favorite activity, but also a kind of therapy for me. I like writing about things that I've been through and sha... View profile
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