Daughters' Grief After Losing Mother: Unique Challenges and When to Seek Help
The loss of a mother can have a profound effect on her children, with daughters often experiencing grief differently than sons. It's crucial to understand these differences and seek professional help when needed.
Grief after losing a mother can occur in stages, starting with immediate symptoms. Women may face more negative affects, including binge drinking, lower self-esteem, and less personal growth. This can strain family relationships and make it harder to adjust. Normal emotions in the year following can include regret, remorse, anxiety, guilt, emptiness, rage, anger, sadness, and numbness. Parental loss is linked with depression and a compromised sense of self in young adults.
If grief persists for more than a year, daughters may benefit from speaking with a mental health professional. Specialists in grief counseling, trauma-informed therapy, and systemic or family therapy can help. They may be clinical psychologists, licensed professional counselors, or licensed clinical social workers experienced in bereavement and trauma care. If grief becomes overwhelming, help is available through the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, or local helplines.
Grief can also cause physical and psychological effects such as increased risk of cancer, cardiac issues, immune disorders, and high blood pressure. Coping with grief can involve keeping up with traditions, focusing on happy memories, seeking maternal figures, practicing mindfulness, honoring the mother, helping others, and seeking professional support.
Losing a mother can be a challenging experience for daughters, with potential long-term effects on mental and physical health. Understanding the unique aspects of this grief and seeking help when needed can make a significant difference in the healing process.
