Mourning a Mother's Demise: Guides for Daughters to Overcome Heartbreak
Grieving the loss of a mother is a deeply personal and challenging experience. This article aims to provide insights and resources for those going through this difficult time.
Offering support to others who have experienced similar losses can be a therapeutic part of the grieving process. Focusing on happy reminders such as pictures, books, or keepsakes can provide comfort during this time.
According to a 2021 study, parental loss is linked with depression and a compromised sense of self in young adults. The most common psychological consequences of grief after the loss of a mother include major depressive disorder, prolonged grief disorder (also known as complicated grief), and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms, as described in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
Women who experience the loss of a mother are more likely than men to binge drink, have a greater decline in self-esteem, and have a lower level of personal mastery. The death of a mother can have more negative effects on daughters than on sons, according to a study.
Relationships within your family may be strained after the loss of a mother. During this time, local support groups, online chat forums, and mental health professionals can be valuable resources. The American Psychological Association's Psychologist Locator can help find a professional specialized in grief recovery.
If extreme grief persists for more than a year or impacts daily functioning, speaking with a mental health professional may be helpful. Grief that impairs daily functioning or persists for longer than a year may require the support of a mental health professional.
You may feel regret for lost family traditions and cultural knowledge after losing your mother. Honoring a mother's memory can take various forms, such as donating to her favourite charity or achieving a personal goal.
Mindfulness, the ability to focus on the moment and not follow thoughts down an emotional path, may help manage painful memories related to the loss of a mother. If you are experiencing overwhelming grief and considering self-harm or suicide, help is available immediately through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, or Befrienders Worldwide.
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 provide assistance during the grieving process.
It's important to remember that grief is a complex and individual experience. You may wonder how successfully you're fulfilling your own role as a mother after losing your mother. Losing a mother can mean the loss of an important part of your support system. Maternal support can come from various figures, not just blood relatives.
In conclusion, navigating grief after the loss of a mother requires patience, understanding, and support. It's essential to take care of yourself during this difficult time and seek help when needed.
