Grief responses to death vary. As an adult we know that a parent’s death is inevitable. It’s the order of life. Society sometimes minimizes these deaths children in many ways.
As I noted in an article featured in a Fatherly.com article, grieving adults experience physical and physiological changes as a result of losing their parent(s). Joshua Krisch, in this article, discussed the challenges faced by adult children grieving death of parent(s).
Fatherly.com is a widely read digital media offering insightful articles, video series and more mainly for dads. As featured in the Fatherly.com article, I noted that grieving adults experience physical and physiological changes as a result of losing their parent. Read more ….
Condolences at best are sincere but can be invalidating. “They are old,” “They have gone to a better place.” Time will take care of the pain.” On and on. I have lost both parents. My father, over 20 years ago and my mother about 4 years ago. I disagree. Time provides acceptance of one’s new reality.
5 Tips for Grieving Adults
1. Be prepared for the Emotions and Feelings: Sometimes unpredictable changing emotions including sadness, anger, guilt, despair, denial, disbelief and shock. The intensity and duration of these emotions vary. You might notice mixed conflicting emotions.
2. Be consistent with self-care: Attend to your health. Eat healthy and regularly.Exercise. Get adequate sleep. Attend to spiritual practices(God, whoever or whatever helps you find meaning).
3. Be clear and honest about your feelings recognizing that not everyone will understand.
4. Prepare ahead for difficult dates and create a ritual (journal, remembrance walk, fundraiser etc., visit the grave, do something).
5. Surround yourself with supportive others: Family, friends, spiritual community. Ask for support. Join a grief support group if this appeals to you. Seek therapy if you find yourself lingering in melancholy, discomfort and losing pleasure in life and what you used to enjoy.
What have you found helpful as you grieve a parent or even both parents?
I would love to hear from you.
Call Jumoke at 4029816624 for help with grieving the death of parents or other loved ones.
Jumoke Omojola is a Mental Health Therapist in Omaha, Nebraska where she assists adults create healthier, happier lives and nurturing relationships. She serves Bellevue, Ralston, LaVista and other surrounding Omaha and Council Bluffs areas.