Mourning the Departure of a Mother: Strategies for Daughters to Cope Effectively
The loss of a mother is a profound and life-changing event that can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and lost. However, understanding the impact of this loss and seeking support can help ease the burden of grief.
A study published in 2015 found that women may experience a more intense grief response and have more difficulty adjusting to the loss of a parent compared to men. Daughters, in particular, may find the loss more challenging, as another study from 2021 suggests.
Grief can take a toll on one's physical health, increasing the chances of cancer, cardiac issues, immune disorders, and high blood pressure, according to a separate study. It's essential to prioritise self-care during this time.
Fortunately, there are ways to find comfort and coping mechanisms during the grieving process. Focusing on happy memories, such as pictures, books, or keepsakes, can provide a sense of solace. Books like "Healing After the Loss of Your Mother: A Grief & Comfort Manual", "Motherless Daughters: The Legacy of Loss", and "How to Survive the Loss of a Parent: A Guide for Adults" may offer valuable insights and advice.
Offering support to others who have experienced parental loss can also be a meaningful way to cope with grief. Local support groups, online chat forums, and mental health professionals can provide assistance during this challenging time.
Mindfulness, the ability to focus on the moment and not follow thoughts down an emotional path, can help manage painful memories related to the loss of a mother. Starting your own traditions may help you find comfort knowing your children will have both yours and your mother's traditions to carry on with them.
Honoring a mother's memory can take various forms, such as donating to her favourite charity or achieving goals she always wanted. The American Psychological Association's Psychologist Locator can help find a professional specializing in grief recovery.
If extreme grief persists for more than a year or if one is having trouble completing daily tasks, speaking with a mental health professional may be helpful. It's important to remember that grief that impairs your daily functioning or persists for longer than a year may require the support of a mental health professional.
Loss of a mother can mean losing an important part of your support system, feeling regret for lost family traditions and cultural knowledge, and wondering how successfully you're fulfilling your own role as a mother. However, it's crucial to remember that seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness.
In times of distress, it's essential to prioritise self-care and seek help when needed. If you are considering self-harm or suicide, help is available right now through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, or Befrienders Worldwide.
Remember, it's okay to grieve, and it's okay to seek help. You are not alone, and there are resources available to support you during this difficult time.
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