Grieving Parental Loss

Two days before my November birthday, my father passed away. I have discovered that grief is an interesting topic unappreciated until there is a real personal encounter. Feelings of anguish are commonly experienced after any significant loss such as a job or relationship including the death of a close person. Separation anxiety, feelings of yearning and confusion accompany the state of grief. During this time, intrusive thoughts of the past or fears for the future may emerge. It is not rare to have feelings of regret over lost opportunities or remorse for a negative act that was committed by either party. An intense grief reaction can disrupt the immune system or cause physical pain enough to influence self-neglect. Grieving is deeply personal and there is no ‘correct’ way to go through the process. Gabert (2020) describes surviving the unexpected nature of grief: