I began my career in social services in 1997, working in Edinburgh with people who were living with HIV/AIDS. At that time, Edinburgh was Europe’s “AIDS Capital.” Bereavement was a…
Navigating A Parent’s Dementia: Twice Bereaved
How To Cope with Grief During the Holidays
The holiday season is approaching, and with it comes a sense of dread amongst those of us who have lost someone dear to us. This may be your first holiday…
Beyond the Caregiver: Grieving the Loss of an Identity
The Unexpected Grief of No Longer Being a Caregiver “To be needed is a great thing, but to be unnecessary is even greater.” — Maya Angelou When caregiving ends, whether…
When Kids Grieve
Grief makes for a difficult journey, no matter your age, gender, or background. However, for a young person, it can be especially confusing. The average child or teen hasn’t had…
Death, Grief & Living In Galicia
Six years ago, my partner and I decided to relocate from our cozy Victorian cottage in western, near the Blue Mountains, Sydney to northern Spain. There were numerous reasons for…
Talking About Suicide and Grief
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is immensely difficult, but losing a loved one to suicide can significantly augment the level of pain and trauma. However, it is…
The Psychological Impact of Losing a Loved One to Suicide
The shock and distress after the suicide of a loved one can feel devastating. In addition to grieving the loss, you are probably facing various conflicting emotions and finding it…
Tips for Coping with the Physical Symptoms of Grief
When I lost my mom, I experienced a rollercoaster of emotions and at times it felt like it was endless. I was no stranger to digestive complaints, but everything seemed…
Grief: Not Running Away From It
I like to say the biggest gift my mom ever gave me was her depression. In many ways, it’s the gift that keeps on giving. Even as I near my…
The Profound Shift: Life Before and After Loss
After grief, it’s as if a person has lived two separate lives: the before and the after. All experiences seem to fall into one of those two categories. Life changes…
