Mourning the Demise of a Mother: Strategies for Daughters to Cope with Loss

Overcoming Mourning a Mother: Strategies for Daughters to Find Solace

Losing a mother is a profoundly life-changing event that can evoke a range of intense emotions. Two books about this experience, authored by Doris Büchel and Ute Cohen, offer insights into the complexities of this loss.

The grieving process can be particularly challenging for women, with studies showing they are more likely than men to experience a decline in self-esteem, a lower level of personal mastery, and even turn to binge drinking following the loss of a mother.

Mindfulness, the ability to focus on the present moment and avoid being swept away by emotional thoughts, can be a helpful tool during this time. It can aid in managing the painful memories that often surface during grief.

Local support groups, online chat forums, and mental health professionals can provide valuable assistance during the grieving process. The American Psychological Association's Psychologist Locator is a useful resource for finding a professional specializing in grief recovery.

If the grief becomes unbearable, immediate help is available. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, Crisis Text Line, and Befrienders Worldwide are all resources that offer support in times of crisis.

It's important to remember that everyone's experience with grief is unique. While some may find comfort in focusing on happy reminders such as pictures, books, or keepsakes, others may struggle with feelings of regret for lost family traditions and cultural knowledge.

The death of a mother can also have long-term effects on mental health. A 2021 study linked parental loss with depression and a compromised sense of self in young adults. Similarly, a 2015 study found that women experienced a more intense grief response and had more difficulty adjusting to the loss compared to men.

Honoring a mother's memory can be a healing process. This can take many forms, from donating to her favourite charity to setting and achieving personal goals. Offering maternal support to others who have experienced parental loss can also be a meaningful way to cope with grief.

Grief can have physical as well as emotional effects. A study found links between grief and increased chances of cancer, cardiac issues, immune disorders, and high blood pressure. It's crucial to take care of both your physical and mental health during this time.

If extreme grief persists for more than a year or interferes with daily tasks, it may be helpful to seek the support of a mental health professional. Keeping up with traditions from your mother or starting your own traditions can also help ease the burden of loss.

In conclusion, the loss of a mother is a significant event that can have far-reaching effects. However, with the right support and coping mechanisms, it's possible to navigate this challenging time and find a path towards healing.