Tips for Grieving the Loss of Your Parents

Losing a parent can be an extremely difficult experience. The special bond between a parent and child is irreplaceable. Often, the death of a parent feels like the end of an era and a shaky step into independent adulthood.

The grief process is different for everyone and includes new emotions one might have never encountered before. Losing a parent can mean losing a sense of security, losing a sense of support, and feelings of hopelessness and loss of direction. Keep in mind that everyone grieves in a different way, but here are some suggestions and things to remember when dealing with the loss of a parent.

Look to Friends and Family

Friends and family are great support systems for times of loss. They may even be feeling similar emotions as you, so why not reach out? They could need you as much as you need them.

Don’t Be Tough on Yourself

Death can bring up a lot of questions, but don’t dwell on the negative. Avoid blaming yourself for what happened and focus on celebrating your loved one’s life.

Give Yourself Space

Sometimes it’s best to take time off of work or school to grieve. The added stress of attending work or school can be overwhelming and distract you from the natural process of grieving. Take care of yourself.

Your Emotions are your Emotions

Do not let others tell you what to feel. Everyone deals with loss in different ways and only you know how you feel inside. Do not let others dictate what you should be going through.

Contact a Therapist

Therapy can be a great way to organize your thoughts and emotions. East-West Therapy Hawaii offers grief counseling that can help move you though the process of losing a parent.

East-West Therapy Hawaii believes the stages of grief are a process of moving forward. Do not dwell on the past, but rather keep your parents alive in memories and traditions.

Contacting a therapist or joining a support group can be a fantastic way to sort through the pain of loss without going at it alone. For more information about grief counseling, contact East-West Therapy Hawaii.

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