13/05/2025
One of the biggest challenges for grievers is feeling "normalized" in their experience and asking for what they need as they struggle to adapt to a very different life that's now filled with grief.
It's a difficult road for many and honestly, people need to remember and recognize that some of our basic human needs often shift when grieving a difficult loss. And even though a griever isn't doing anything wrong or asking for too much, grievers often feel like they are doing something wrong, being overly dramatic, or being selfish.
That's simply not true. So much of what grievers need when trying to move forward in life while carrying grief makes sense and these needs are sometimes part of what it means to survive during what can be one of life's most difficult seasons in life.
Everyone is different and what you need may be quite different than someone else. That's okay. This is your journey and please know that you get to grieve in whatever way feels right for you and you deserve to get your personal needs met. Sometimes our very survival depends on it.
Whether it's getting extra rest, needing to talk about your loved one or your grief, spending time with close friends, or distracting yourself from the deep pain (just a few examples), you are not doing anything wrong or asking for more than you should. It's important that you honor your needs and your grief. There's nothing easy about loss or grief and taking good care of yourself is critical regardless of what the outside world thinks.
I'm sending lots of love as you continue to identify your needs and if you need validation or support, don't hesitate to reach out to me.
Big hugs. Michele
