Colorize and Breathe Life into Old Black-and-White Photos (Get started for free)

What can I do to cope with the loss of my mom on 619?

Grief can manifest physically - studies show the loss of a parent can cause increased inflammation, headaches, fatigue, and even heart palpitations as the body processes the emotional trauma.

Ambiguous loss is common when a parent has a prolonged illness.

This type of grief is complicated by the fact that the parent is physically present but cognitively/emotionally absent, making closure difficult.

The average person takes around 18 months to reach a point of integrated grief after losing a parent.

However, the grieving process is highly individual and non-linear.

Smell and taste can be powerful triggers for grief.

Familiar scents or flavors associated with a parent can suddenly evoke strong emotions years after their passing.

Holidays, birthdays, and other milestone events tend to be the most difficult times after losing a parent.

Having a plan for self-care during these periods is important.

Grief can reawaken past trauma.

Unresolved issues with a parent may resurface, complicating the grieving process.

Parentless children, even adult ones, often feel a profound sense of "I'm on my own now" after losing their last living parent.

Studies show women tend to experience more intense grief reactions after the loss of a mother compared to the loss of a father.

Journaling, memory books, and other creative outlets can help process grief and maintain connections with a deceased parent.

Support groups, both in-person and online, can provide a vital community for those navigating the loss of a parent.

Complicated grief, where the grieving process becomes debilitating, affects around 10% of those who lose a parent.

Seeking professional help is advised in these cases.

Genetic factors may play a role in how individuals experience and cope with parental loss.

Some people may be more predisposed to prolonged grief reactions.

The COVID-19 pandemic has added an extra layer of complexity to grieving, with restrictions on funerals and in-person support limiting traditional mourning practices.

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help manage the intense emotions that arise during the grieving process.

Maintaining rituals and traditions associated with a deceased parent can provide comfort and a sense of continuity for those left behind.

Seeking counseling or therapy, even for a limited time, is often recommended to help navigate the unique challenges of losing a parent.

The notion of "closure" after the loss of a parent is a myth.

Grief ebbs and flows, and people learn to carry the loss with them rather than reaching a definitive endpoint.

Sibling relationships can be strained or strengthened by the shared experience of parental loss, depending on the family dynamics.

Participating in activities or hobbies that the deceased parent enjoyed can be a meaningful way to honor their memory and maintain a connection.

The grief of losing a parent is often described as a "lifelong journey," with the intensity and nature of the grief evolving over time.

Colorize and Breathe Life into Old Black-and-White Photos (Get started for free)