Across our Loss Foundation support events we feel privileged to hear your stories and experiences. It takes strength to reach out for support and speak about a loss, and we never underestimate how difficult it can be to do just that. At the same time, we are constantly witnessing the benefits of talking and being heard – we see the changes it brings in those who come along to us for support, and we are so glad you find us.
All too often society as a whole appears to avoid speaking about loss and grief and it becomes a taboo subject. However, for those experiencing grief, being heard is significant and potentially a life line. Talking about grief can bring people together whereas avoiding talking can create distance in relationships.
And it may not just be the loss of someone you find yourself processing now, but all the experiences and memories that you didn’t have time to process whilst you were in caring mode. Whilst we are trying to survive difficult and life-threatening experiences we don’t have the time to stop and process what’s happening – it just all happens so quickly. So you may find that memories of experiences before someone passed away come flooding back. This is totally normal, but may be a sign that you, the carer, need to be cared for now.
Everyone’s grief is unique and it is important to move forward at your own pace. Returning to work, reading letters, attending certain events may all happen at different times and in a different sequence for each person.
Remember that your journey is your own and there is no right or wrong time for when you should be doing certain things. And now is the time to care for you.
Best Wishes,
Megan