Mourning the Death of a Mother: Strategies for Daughters to Cope in Difficult Times
Losing a mother is a profound and life-altering experience. In the aftermath, relationships within the family may become strained, and coping with the loss can be challenging. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on dealing with grief, drawing on facts and resources to help those navigating this difficult journey.
In the United States, psychotherapists specializing in grief counseling related to the loss of a mother may hold titles such as Grief Counselor, Bereavement Therapist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or Psychologist specializing in grief therapy.
Grief manifests differently for everyone, and daughters may experience grief differently than sons. This can lead to cultural and tradition losses, as well as a lack of maternal guidance. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.) lists a range of normal emotions in the year following parental loss, including regret, remorse, anxiety, guilt, emptiness, rage, anger, sadness, and numbness.
It's important to remember that offering maternal support to others who have experienced parental loss can provide a sense of purpose during the grieving process. Keeping up with traditions or starting new ones can help ease the burden of loss.
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 (personal growth). Grief is linked to increased chances of cancer, cardiac issues, immune disorders, and high blood pressure.
Honoring a mother's memory can take many forms, such as donating to her favourite charity or achieving a goal she always wanted. Maternal figures can come in various forms, and finding another source of maternal support can help retain feelings of guidance and understanding.
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. Focusing on happy memories, such as pictures, books, or keepsakes, can provide comfort during the grieving process of losing a mother.
If grief impairs your daily functioning, or persists for longer than a year, it may require the support of a mental health professional. Local support groups, online chat forums, and mental health professionals can be valuable resources during the grieving process. The American Psychological Association's Psychologist Locator can help find a mental health professional specializing in grief recovery.
Parental loss is linked with depression and a compromised sense of self in young adults. If extreme grief persists for more than a year or interferes with daily tasks, speaking with a mental health professional can be helpful.
In times of unbearable grief, immediate help is available. In the United States, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and Befrienders Worldwide are resources available for those in need.
Losing your mother can mean feeling like you've lost an important part of your support system. However, with understanding, support, and resources, it's possible to navigate this difficult time and find a way forward.
