tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51633776156560612052024-03-18T15:32:31.086-04:00Grief HealingUseful information on caregiving, grief and transition -- for anyone coping with loss Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.comBlogger2225125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-10115013405944051512024-03-18T08:41:00.001-04:002024-03-18T08:41:41.914-04:00Take Care in Seeking Comfort and Support in Grief<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSaGsfLhyphenhyphenRx0XLeuaeEQVoyib56hnm8XMwGrJ-RtYqXWvKefwSQlQN9itOq2I8g1w6IxhnzIl4Ds_iAsjGx4MuzwdhXJxwrOlBqNOEjjH1WT1vogf-sYfBS8r5-5mpm5BWUyXon-4Utb0vi4eX5moIth45XkFGnQdUeZLO9uNpcxQLGMUbb90v8XweFSg/s640/Reading.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjSaGsfLhyphenhyphenRx0XLeuaeEQVoyib56hnm8XMwGrJ-RtYqXWvKefwSQlQN9itOq2I8g1w6IxhnzIl4Ds_iAsjGx4MuzwdhXJxwrOlBqNOEjjH1WT1vogf-sYfBS8r5-5mpm5BWUyXon-4Utb0vi4eX5moIth45XkFGnQdUeZLO9uNpcxQLGMUbb90v8XweFSg/s320/Reading.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><p></p><p><i>You need many teachers, not one teacher; you need many gurus, not one guru; you need many books not one book! </i>~ Mehmet Murat ildan</p><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>One of my recent problems has to to do with a book I’m reading, consisting mainly of writings and 'lectures' by a man who claims to be an actual avatar, a real embodiment of God Itself, and whose claims of how things really are, and how a continuing life might be for anyone, are very, very close to what I already believed to be the most logical and sensible way things probably worked. BUT, a few of the things he says have also been not only different, but quite frightening, at least to me.</i><br><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/take-care-in-seeking-comfort-and.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-26848268455866014682024-03-17T00:07:00.000-04:002024-03-17T00:07:13.125-04:00Understanding and Managing Grief, March 10 - March 16, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97yke9-HDyNoUqIBsNhGJnDcb56KL582aofi51H0iU0MCot4cP8PjTX2fzuVR-JtvxAKObxZ6_jQ9YId6xMoS-IISV2Ec2p0YBOhEQo15VWVjg_Ke2slh8C1LK6Vwdf735YU8_ynLMzhJvkbpSNbAan-HiesmNWv9rv8mGipLuUI5lt0wyNoMWyuiacDq/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg97yke9-HDyNoUqIBsNhGJnDcb56KL582aofi51H0iU0MCot4cP8PjTX2fzuVR-JtvxAKObxZ6_jQ9YId6xMoS-IISV2Ec2p0YBOhEQo15VWVjg_Ke2slh8C1LK6Vwdf735YU8_ynLMzhJvkbpSNbAan-HiesmNWv9rv8mGipLuUI5lt0wyNoMWyuiacDq/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>When people talk about managing grief, often this involves grieving for someone who’s already passed. However, there are times when a loved one may be approaching the end of their life, perhaps due to an illness or age. In this situation, some find that they have already begun experiencing aspects of grief.</i><b> </b><a href="https://blog.aftertalk.com/strategies-for-preparing-and-coping-with-imminent-loss/" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Strategies for Preparing and Coping with Imminent Loss</a> <b>« </b><b>AfterTalk<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/understanding-and-managing-grief-march_17.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-12040699625492216502024-03-11T09:51:00.002-04:002024-03-11T10:10:36.202-04:00Abortion Leads to Partner's Silent, Disenfranchised Grief<i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRDDRcoX7tMugjLCFD-01EXtykjdNLXHTC34dx1XFpup9LRhAl66-d6ipEHut6awhhzw1afAFRSnYkH8oBh5lQSsz5jNjmg4qilU3pdtGUA3jfv6hXT9jEDjkoIQmlzSjVgRTfUHnsIxr5-QPa-B5gRgw966WWnTripoBaNoIZJoQmWon7VIKFm17tPXs/s640/SadMan4.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPRDDRcoX7tMugjLCFD-01EXtykjdNLXHTC34dx1XFpup9LRhAl66-d6ipEHut6awhhzw1afAFRSnYkH8oBh5lQSsz5jNjmg4qilU3pdtGUA3jfv6hXT9jEDjkoIQmlzSjVgRTfUHnsIxr5-QPa-B5gRgw966WWnTripoBaNoIZJoQmWon7VIKFm17tPXs/s320/SadMan4.jpg" width="320"></a></div></i><p></p><div><i>There’s no love like a lost love and no pain like a broken heart. </i>~ Ben Harper</div><div><i><br></i></div><div><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>My girlfriend and I got pregnant about two months ago. She went and took the abortion pill yesterday. I begged her not to, to marry me and have this child. But she said no. She doesn't want to be in a relationship with me anymore. I am grieiving not only the loss of our possible child together, but the loss of our possible life together. I'm not even sure where to begin, but I still can't believe that she actually went through with it. </i></div><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/abortion-leads-to-partners-silent.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-4781806382294510252024-03-10T00:11:00.001-05:002024-03-10T00:11:16.333-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, March 3 - March 9, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsj3WM48sMgy8Ocs969vULS8WgOzbzW1m8tut0frtO7eDD4kicx5co7E4aP4jNOb7L8zWqPUuH3_a_ijy-Q5Xv2n0PBUoU8fBwzS82Qe3x3dYFSpWxb0MerYGbTGn7XYB8Rf1AXd2xQCaASuyckE1ybfqm8NCb9Dm7VMyvA40t7L_27iV_0bznZb4jKck/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsj3WM48sMgy8Ocs969vULS8WgOzbzW1m8tut0frtO7eDD4kicx5co7E4aP4jNOb7L8zWqPUuH3_a_ijy-Q5Xv2n0PBUoU8fBwzS82Qe3x3dYFSpWxb0MerYGbTGn7XYB8Rf1AXd2xQCaASuyckE1ybfqm8NCb9Dm7VMyvA40t7L_27iV_0bznZb4jKck/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Asking yourself about the grief process and overdoing this work is a great insight that is always good to examine. I hadn’t thought of the possibility of working so hard at grief that it could be a distraction from stepping into life, but it makes great sense and is a profound insight.</i><b> <a href="https://www.taosnews.com/opinion/columns/the-importance-of-taking-time-for-recess-in-the-grief-process/article_7334ba9e-056c-58b7-b526-bba67b8eaef9.html" target="_blank">The importance of taking time for 'recess' in the grief process</a></b> <b>« Taos News<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/understanding-and-managing-grief-march.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-77189821347692868832024-03-04T09:00:00.003-05:002024-03-06T13:26:50.624-05:00Voices of Experience: What You Want Your Loved Ones To Know When You Die<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirteK4cFZYE3pRBaIFHmHTfROHsgbJqg8rH5x_UqPUkL20jZqc70x3SXgcTeLDVWfiYdppIPtt8zepq038v09DJEvYDeRVMgOeCpz-RD19CToYmzmc5Acctig_Qd5wOpiZvGmey1jryymauSBkojhJ3cgFL2srDNBxkUN7PpJ2ByEOIt0FxzzhW9ODwCxm/s2701/Two%20Envelopes%20front%20cover%20Rusty%20Rosman%20(1).jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2701" data-original-width="1801" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirteK4cFZYE3pRBaIFHmHTfROHsgbJqg8rH5x_UqPUkL20jZqc70x3SXgcTeLDVWfiYdppIPtt8zepq038v09DJEvYDeRVMgOeCpz-RD19CToYmzmc5Acctig_Qd5wOpiZvGmey1jryymauSBkojhJ3cgFL2srDNBxkUN7PpJ2ByEOIt0FxzzhW9ODwCxm/w213-h320/Two%20Envelopes%20front%20cover%20Rusty%20Rosman%20(1).jpg" width="213"></a></div>Rusty Rosman spent years helping her parents and her in-laws as they aged. Over the years, Rusty saw many of their friends and their families conflicted over final arrangements and family confrontations. After making sure the parents updated their estate planning, Rusty encouraged them to write out their final wishes for their funerals, mourning period and then, what they wanted done with their belongings that weren’t covered in their legal documents. Rusty is one of four children. Having her parents put their wishes in writing made the heartbreaking experience of a parent’s death much easier for all four of them to navigate—because they had their parents’ wishes in writing. From that experience, <b><i><a href="https://amzn.to/3P6FXzf" target="_blank">Two Envelopes:What You Want Your Loved Ones To Know When You Die</a></i></b> was born. <p></p><p>Here Rusty encourages us to convey our final wishes to family and loved ones by preparing our own two envelopes:<span></span></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/voices-of-experience-what-you-want-your.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-30702089900654427212024-03-03T08:47:00.003-05:002024-03-03T08:47:35.110-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, February 25 - March 2, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLE82VJVVXFV38aZ_htuZ78J9toe5breRLj6xvjh3Nh-SMSxYf7jjlCdBZwUCMHouCbeYPr2Jln1ma0LoJI3r9GOVjvGjIkVgv45tR-0OtH0saQLeQTSLw2e7CYdYweZvNoqWbvIAvyBDQMwZyTZkqjNgfN9x6LwzL_Wln5U6hQGbXfBTs5BBLIZDaAFl/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGLE82VJVVXFV38aZ_htuZ78J9toe5breRLj6xvjh3Nh-SMSxYf7jjlCdBZwUCMHouCbeYPr2Jln1ma0LoJI3r9GOVjvGjIkVgv45tR-0OtH0saQLeQTSLw2e7CYdYweZvNoqWbvIAvyBDQMwZyTZkqjNgfN9x6LwzL_Wln5U6hQGbXfBTs5BBLIZDaAFl/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Losing a parent is devastating. Losing both in a short time creates a unique set of emotional and practical challenges. Navigating grief can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with the Social Security system. Financial planner J.C. Corrigan, CFP® shares his experience so that others might avoid similar issues.</i><b> <a href="https://www.advisorperspectives.com/articles/2024/02/28/navigating-grief-benefits-both-parents-die" target="_blank">Navigating Grief and Benefits When Both Parents Die</a></b> <b>« Advisor Perspectives<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/03/understanding-and-managing-grief.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-68465511089434054432024-02-26T08:48:00.000-05:002024-02-26T08:48:07.010-05:00In Grief: The Gift of Forgiveness<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOMNZ9MUaQsAhN6f4cdbco-F68Y60P3YaSrn6nxN0vnhucwTvC03XWUAmQpmL50KO1ZfZFfAaZPuTgUmdwZqqrEYA1qSJ4cz7a9TOq_B-y77nFwPlarBDSbrEie0p4yxTuH_9djE7EW3Q7UppskFDJjdhhV4uSyTQB1HA-k4EuJQDVp-jmCyCvYuzDKXw/s640/forgiveness2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKOMNZ9MUaQsAhN6f4cdbco-F68Y60P3YaSrn6nxN0vnhucwTvC03XWUAmQpmL50KO1ZfZFfAaZPuTgUmdwZqqrEYA1qSJ4cz7a9TOq_B-y77nFwPlarBDSbrEie0p4yxTuH_9djE7EW3Q7UppskFDJjdhhV4uSyTQB1HA-k4EuJQDVp-jmCyCvYuzDKXw/s320/forgiveness2.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart. </i>~ Corrie Ten Boom<p></p><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>I lost my mom six weeks ago. We had a distant and strange relationship my entire life as she favored my brother and made no qualms about showing it financially and otherwise. During my childhood there was much conflict in the house and she didn't protect me from it and wasn't remorseful. Dad had 7 heart attacks during my teen years and died when I was 19 (I'm 53 now). Our home revolved around chronic illness and tension and anger. I resented mom during my 20's and 30's for not protecting me from my father and brother and also had trouble with her obvious favoritism toward my brother which she expressed financially. I moved away many years ago and tried to create a more functional environment for myself and learn about love and support in other types of circles.<span></span></i><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/in-grief-gift-of-forgiveness.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-57452835225329187602024-02-25T08:24:00.001-05:002024-02-25T08:24:49.381-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, February 18 - February 24, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTqFB-dai0pZpudHm5XpcUbNG-XKci0xeVpbAYTlP4I6bilq8hDwodifO5dxmn7bs5O_NhU5fMWI6JGqBfkBi-RImrGjIcBJXrIbv8zcWA-zZC3p1FvtN4iqQ3OcOMoEv98HTCFNx_95Sa1SXsPHfA1MRkTWpblCIwQO3Gxh-yjRCFc1rqTJkXrSZDQ7h/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCTqFB-dai0pZpudHm5XpcUbNG-XKci0xeVpbAYTlP4I6bilq8hDwodifO5dxmn7bs5O_NhU5fMWI6JGqBfkBi-RImrGjIcBJXrIbv8zcWA-zZC3p1FvtN4iqQ3OcOMoEv98HTCFNx_95Sa1SXsPHfA1MRkTWpblCIwQO3Gxh-yjRCFc1rqTJkXrSZDQ7h/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Whether it’s the diagnosis of an advanced cancer or a non-malignant condition such as dementia, heart failure or Parkinson’s disease, the psychological and emotional process of grief can begin many months or even years before the person dies. This experience of mourning a future loss is known as anticipatory grief.</i><b> </b><a href="https://theconversation.com/not-all-mourning-happens-after-bereavement-for-some-grief-can-start-years-before-the-death-of-a-loved-one-221629" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Not all mourning happens after bereavement – for some, grief can start years before the death of a loved one</a> <b>« The Conversation<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/understanding-and-managing-grief_25.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-63641099546573524612024-02-19T08:27:00.000-05:002024-02-19T08:27:04.752-05:00Making Comparisons in Grief<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKOAOvofKoFvy5E2OGGr2aEheYPVNdg4bF7QYBUmZb9k78yMl6WqchirOkmntFhA-W0OGOBpS5U68QYNlrRNJMCOZwSmaCk3x6RAxZmvvF7mhI-VIqytb2Tajv12cchvfw0zEXuJ9Jo5kwFqIUTFQGYfhXcD5X2-EtHWiNwnKFOh5Y2lVl06kviYw-ANt/s640/Comparison.ApplesOranges.png" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="640" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnKOAOvofKoFvy5E2OGGr2aEheYPVNdg4bF7QYBUmZb9k78yMl6WqchirOkmntFhA-W0OGOBpS5U68QYNlrRNJMCOZwSmaCk3x6RAxZmvvF7mhI-VIqytb2Tajv12cchvfw0zEXuJ9Jo5kwFqIUTFQGYfhXcD5X2-EtHWiNwnKFOh5Y2lVl06kviYw-ANt/s320/Comparison.ApplesOranges.png" width="320"></a></i></div><p></p><div dir="ltr" trbidi="on"><div><div><i>I generally find that comparison is the fast track to unhappiness. No one ever compares themselves to someone else and comes out even. Nine times out of ten, we compare ourselves to people who are somehow better than us and end up feeling more inadequate. ~</i></div><div>Jack Canfield</div><div><i><br></i></div>As news about mass shootings and natural disasters continues to flood the airwaves, our hearts go out to the victims, survivors, and others who witnessed these horrific events, as well as to the people living in those places. As a nation we express our collective condolences, offer our heartfelt prayers, and work to contribute whatever we can toward their healing.</div><div><br>For those of us already struggling with grief, however, such catastrophic events unfortunately can give rise to <b><i>feeling guilty for feeling bad</i></b>, as if we don’t have a legitimate right to mourn our own individual losses.<br></div></div><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/making-comparisons-in-grief.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-35723630755854069612024-02-18T09:11:00.001-05:002024-02-18T09:11:30.306-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, February 11 - February 17, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4Eb7uBf8l9H2YzPKHdX6nREYCU-7baqk6AFKIR9asrjH6fNUH_FTkYbrnQWDamc3819S_ytaW1obsi2ZwARNXwZXpaRsNNjZpuaCwM3Nl9fUWKzm5_7bjog4ePUNVI6gMrS5kTBKsHzVXVInllvv3-DVT_wO88cB66rVOERjunFc9Hm7W83YFzS3PttD/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX4Eb7uBf8l9H2YzPKHdX6nREYCU-7baqk6AFKIR9asrjH6fNUH_FTkYbrnQWDamc3819S_ytaW1obsi2ZwARNXwZXpaRsNNjZpuaCwM3Nl9fUWKzm5_7bjog4ePUNVI6gMrS5kTBKsHzVXVInllvv3-DVT_wO88cB66rVOERjunFc9Hm7W83YFzS3PttD/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Milestone dates can catch us off guard and bring us to our knees. Preparing ahead of time can bring sweetness and meaning to the day. Create rituals that honor your loved one's life and legacy.</i><b> <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/grace-in-grief/202402/grieving-through-birthdays-and-death-days" target="_blank">Grieving Through Birthdays and Death Days</a></b> <b>« Psychology Today<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/understanding-and-managing-grief_18.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-47598222268330837482024-02-12T09:35:00.002-05:002024-02-16T13:03:59.316-05:00In Grief: When An Ex-Spouse Dies<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7m20NpCdQC82qBJ2fsSyzbO1ewnuSieZvqa0_TH4V4T3EfLsoW5zm5f6E6HTq0g8AshWUlTh4yrQiPGQOLw1aHU6KMLJRdyWYdf_3HXc-feFWcX6Ba0PO0WYAvURwcOGzknMz3Q5Y_CeS9UciHgXYCUC_7JqZfObuT-R_hdgSEOKXVslxjbZEFBvU_Fy/s640/disenfranchised.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY7m20NpCdQC82qBJ2fsSyzbO1ewnuSieZvqa0_TH4V4T3EfLsoW5zm5f6E6HTq0g8AshWUlTh4yrQiPGQOLw1aHU6KMLJRdyWYdf_3HXc-feFWcX6Ba0PO0WYAvURwcOGzknMz3Q5Y_CeS9UciHgXYCUC_7JqZfObuT-R_hdgSEOKXVslxjbZEFBvU_Fy/w320-h320/disenfranchised.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>It is harder to accept the reality of loss if one is excluded from the dying process, restricted from the funeral rituals, inhibited from acknowledging the loss, or even given delayed news of the death.</i> ~ <a href="https://www.drkendoka.com/" target="_blank">Kenneth J. Doka</a><p></p><br><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>I’m not really sure how to explain how I feel after losing my ex-spouse a month ago—especially since he died the same day I was having major surgery. Consequently, I’ve had quite a few complications from my surgery since I started taking care of my two teenage boys and their grief the morning after surgery when I got the phone call about their father. The funeral (which was put on by his new young wife) was about the last four years of his life and didn’t talk about our boys or even mention those years of his life. The people who spoke at the funeral described a man that the boys and I didn’t even know. Most people (at work and friends) don’t know what to say to me because they feel that I have no emotions about this since he was my ex-husband. It’s an uncomfortable subject for my current husband as well.<span></span></i><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/in-grief-when-ex-spouse-dies.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-16711114005129332992024-02-11T00:07:00.000-05:002024-02-11T00:07:01.579-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, February 4 - February 10, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNr070U1v_VhhwZdaYjebMcgY5cp437WJ5wgTH1jZ1LmMyDIOjVNknerhos_W4g-6P3Lgi2tFkznoLIjJfQl2iB3E2S_rorZq9oNxOb-rAUs4wxb13RDR20ZH5ofxmZUhKodyZ3azm7QbzJ7wpPOQrnltctt2ivF0TH8ylE1eboW-PVUf9KlJ5fJDODo-/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNr070U1v_VhhwZdaYjebMcgY5cp437WJ5wgTH1jZ1LmMyDIOjVNknerhos_W4g-6P3Lgi2tFkznoLIjJfQl2iB3E2S_rorZq9oNxOb-rAUs4wxb13RDR20ZH5ofxmZUhKodyZ3azm7QbzJ7wpPOQrnltctt2ivF0TH8ylE1eboW-PVUf9KlJ5fJDODo-/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Advances in neuroimaging are helping people better understand psychological reactions and responses to grief. </i><i>Just as someone is changed by the arrival of a loved one into their life, they are altered by their departure. </i><i>Grieving isn’t the problem: It is a solution, hardwired to help individuals navigate the pain of loss.</i><b> <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/soulbroken/202402/what-we-get-wrong-about-grieving" target="_blank">What We Get Wrong About Grieving</a></b> <b>« Psychology Today<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/understanding-and-managing-grief_11.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-14679638797093374572024-02-05T09:19:00.001-05:002024-02-05T09:19:29.809-05:00In Grief: When A Tragic Accident Takes A Mother's Life<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKyOFwMeGL4rGKrT6cmu_MmEAy4cK7ErWQTUuoUTfCoDcNsmd8JIRQFBRqsJalhox3ZnF4TIthhZ_wVaOPLNBgrZosmgQ9Latoaw_qiLxn9Z-IIvG8A8ymIDudSDtWKk-Dcdj-SZce0gcqD_2l-oIAq8-y8FgpKLQew7X0VmeoQ0zLWxGstnZGguuuGiO/s640/Accident.BrokenGlass2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicKyOFwMeGL4rGKrT6cmu_MmEAy4cK7ErWQTUuoUTfCoDcNsmd8JIRQFBRqsJalhox3ZnF4TIthhZ_wVaOPLNBgrZosmgQ9Latoaw_qiLxn9Z-IIvG8A8ymIDudSDtWKk-Dcdj-SZce0gcqD_2l-oIAq8-y8FgpKLQew7X0VmeoQ0zLWxGstnZGguuuGiO/s320/Accident.BrokenGlass2.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>Trauma is personal. It does not disappear if it is not validated. When it is ignored or invalidated the silent screams continue internally heard only by the one held captive. When someone enters the pain and hears the screams healing can begin.</i> ~ Danielle Bernock<p></p><b>A reader writes: </b><i>I'm 25 years old, and I lost my mother in a surprising, tragic accident about 1 week ago. I was devastated for days, but now I don't feel much of anything... I feel saddened and confused, and I don't really know what to do... nothing feels important - but it is as if I should be feeling much worse, I don't know how to put it any better than that. The funeral was yesterday, and almost 500 people showed up to say goodbye (people were standing in the hallway doors looking it was so full), which was pretty touching considering my mom hardly ever left the house (except for work and dog walking), but it was a lovely thing. </i><br><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/in-grief-when-tragic-accident-takes.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-12336942275798099392024-02-04T00:34:00.000-05:002024-02-04T00:34:05.365-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, January 28 - February 3, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJSJNMccvmu_2O80ywePoi7PRFjY0oK2Jy87j4-RnmM9_PkAwXnewMwcIKF0yXXv5Ks700BCpw78m3daUG2T9KvqaWZjBGkbKZ0KOGrvDJ8huqAyUmBvy7C9wqf4sppsRneM7p_ZidcVkrlSKQILhesnUW1DD0-BQE79so1jhXQFFVN11Ts6uXOpvKPnl/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyJSJNMccvmu_2O80ywePoi7PRFjY0oK2Jy87j4-RnmM9_PkAwXnewMwcIKF0yXXv5Ks700BCpw78m3daUG2T9KvqaWZjBGkbKZ0KOGrvDJ8huqAyUmBvy7C9wqf4sppsRneM7p_ZidcVkrlSKQILhesnUW1DD0-BQE79so1jhXQFFVN11Ts6uXOpvKPnl/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Megan Roantree lost both her dad and her best friend Shauna in her teens, now she reflects on the things it taught her about grief, and what she wishes she knew.</i><b> </b><a href="https://stellar.ie/life/what-i-learned-in-loss-what-i-wish-i-knew-about-grief/132670" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">What I Learned In Loss – & What I Wish I Knew About Grief</a> <b>«</b> <b>Stellar</b></p><p><i>A practical, technical or vocational major may have value in the job market, but it won’t provide the emotional or philosophical tools needed to cope with profound personal experiences like the death of a parent. For that, one needs a grounding in the humanities, which delve into the human experience, emotions and existential questions that arise during our most significant life events.</i><b> </b><a href="https://www.insidehighered.com/opinion/blogs/higher-ed-gamma/2024/02/02/how-humanities-can-aid-coping-loss" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">How The Humanities Can Aid in Coping With Loss</a> <b>« Inside Higher Ed<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/02/understanding-and-managing-grief.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-63932346109532379272024-01-29T09:07:00.001-05:002024-01-29T09:07:29.567-05:00In Grief: When A Friend Refuses Support<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNxu7nKsDtmm1nr7sratFC6VG7Xin8YQuhwowAf-e0hMIOAcehTl1dLtpOfcubczL_swWYXgahBPCU-jODRqaQilFGFIlSs-R3TDXIjH64gw26UogEJzfl_E-fMbNAm38_gJ-bwUuGsxRnFf0Mh1EgWRKFNNJhzYQDTuZzMeiKIFtR4EKFiKpADM0gtRo/s640/Rejected2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXNxu7nKsDtmm1nr7sratFC6VG7Xin8YQuhwowAf-e0hMIOAcehTl1dLtpOfcubczL_swWYXgahBPCU-jODRqaQilFGFIlSs-R3TDXIjH64gw26UogEJzfl_E-fMbNAm38_gJ-bwUuGsxRnFf0Mh1EgWRKFNNJhzYQDTuZzMeiKIFtR4EKFiKpADM0gtRo/s320/Rejected2.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>One of the most beautiful qualities of true friendship is to understand and be understood.</i> ~ Seneca<p></p><b>A reader writes: </b><i>I am hoping you can advise me what to do. I have a very dear and close friend whose brother died of suicide a month ago. This was his only sibling. He had to go identify the body and had to come home to a hysterical wife and barely functioning parents. As far as I know he has cried very little if at all. He and I haven't been able to discuss anything at all. My husband and I did everything we could to help the family with things. The problem is now though he will not call anymore and he has pulled away emotionally. He is saying things to me that I would say are hurtful. I have been trying to keep in touch with him, but now he says we are not compatible. I really want to help him through this very tough time. Do I step back and give him space or what do I do??? </i><i>I am hoping you can give me some guidance. Thank you.</i><br><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/in-grief-when-friend-refuses-support.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-20845684999101904252024-01-28T09:20:00.001-05:002024-01-28T09:20:51.830-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, January 14 - January 27, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7fQcs-JJXzmggj3C63MzlzcoLM8KfZfjLhmWowaAZgXH1YvffwmRbN0bAB7D6MF3wvgrCGKMIIYGYsmppExZCMoQU-rnk3ifFOt6qNDSl8hyoTOsptUAlUrXPUPHs5rOWpWMVzdElaQSHpWf41ohz0KMuPi1adnBiaimEHK2cKfhz3iLeK2qZsML7gfZ/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7fQcs-JJXzmggj3C63MzlzcoLM8KfZfjLhmWowaAZgXH1YvffwmRbN0bAB7D6MF3wvgrCGKMIIYGYsmppExZCMoQU-rnk3ifFOt6qNDSl8hyoTOsptUAlUrXPUPHs5rOWpWMVzdElaQSHpWf41ohz0KMuPi1adnBiaimEHK2cKfhz3iLeK2qZsML7gfZ/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>There is a rising tide of positivity around the new year that can feel difficult for those suffering. </i><i>Ambitious goals and resolutions can exacerbate discouragement or grief. </i><i>An alternative approach is to focus on ways to steady and support yourself.</i><b> <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/supporting-parents/202401/how-to-approach-2024-if-heavy-hearted-or-grief-stricken " target="_blank">How to Approach 2024 if Heavy-Hearted or Grief-Stricken</a></b><i> </i><b>« Psychology Today<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/understanding-and-managing-grief_28.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-16175579907732541952024-01-22T09:33:00.003-05:002024-01-22T11:54:21.347-05:00Grief and Sexuality<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7ZIavLaT-dVIbt6fizngOYGUoFNhwSBnJomzPmqd9a-ynnZi73DD-hhsbPnLwCH30ZnW74VgJRyC03npSh14jlBy1jx7laTkCfHjQWScHQDDUS5qc4090hDeP95fAZ3uErBwr5We1IMhfSPe5SAdniJXtVImoVl3G5noYvHL0sRmQk59Sk8cGTvqnAOv/s640/Sexual.Intimacy.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="640" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG7ZIavLaT-dVIbt6fizngOYGUoFNhwSBnJomzPmqd9a-ynnZi73DD-hhsbPnLwCH30ZnW74VgJRyC03npSh14jlBy1jx7laTkCfHjQWScHQDDUS5qc4090hDeP95fAZ3uErBwr5We1IMhfSPe5SAdniJXtVImoVl3G5noYvHL0sRmQk59Sk8cGTvqnAOv/s320/Sexual.Intimacy.jpg" width="320"></a></div><p><i>Intimacy doesn't mean sharing nudity, intimacy means sharing vulnerability. </i> ~ Abhijit Naskar</p><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>My mother died recently, and although she was older and it happened rather quickly, still it was the saddest thing I’ve ever experienced. Now, three months later, I’m finding it very difficult to become intimate again with my husband. Even being in close proximity to him is difficult for me. It almost scares me. Especially because I want so desperately to know that my mom is watching over me, but I don't want her to see me having sex with my husband! Can you give me some direction on this? </i><p></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/grief-and-sexuality.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-912860155560649952024-01-15T10:18:00.000-05:002024-01-15T10:18:17.463-05:00When Pet Loss Affects Feelings For Those Remaining <p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczlkohJI35kzPvB4QnJysZhEssfAdkAv1Gfw3jiasUymozBZrzUZaPTEf6FanV2wXCkxWPH0suZejRDnDwDMgRNY4jIZ7BoGyhUU3Q5-p8eLNTgUDRpt-5XGzbvoShiRK1aob-9J4tKIxGDZrxw2wL-GabQ1XixYJeug6ndxCMWVpFcvPN3wi4J28jkeC/s640/Dog.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiczlkohJI35kzPvB4QnJysZhEssfAdkAv1Gfw3jiasUymozBZrzUZaPTEf6FanV2wXCkxWPH0suZejRDnDwDMgRNY4jIZ7BoGyhUU3Q5-p8eLNTgUDRpt-5XGzbvoShiRK1aob-9J4tKIxGDZrxw2wL-GabQ1XixYJeug6ndxCMWVpFcvPN3wi4J28jkeC/s320/Dog.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>Love is what we are born with. Fear is what we learned here.</i> ~ Marianne Williamson<p></p><b>A reader writes: </b><i>I had to put my 13 year-old baby Tasha to sleep three days ago. It was so hard. Even my vet and the vet tech cried. It was comforting to know that she was surrounded by love when she went. My problem now is that I have this huge emptiness in my heart and I feel like I can't love my other dogs as much as I used to.</i><br><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/when-pet-loss-affects-feelings-for.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-64213808906681351242024-01-14T00:30:00.001-05:002024-01-14T00:30:54.697-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, January 7 - January 13, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIanP2pzwACC_fgaIPVwK07vEwB6lElGG-bBlVGuisjKA7f6py8f_VFj6Ijyu0dncfGIeZYBPkGN4Xz-viwFl0OZ77wQHMMCrZvZw8PkJesEt9rHpp5t6IkVK8N0Q_bEt6amhYyzwm1LJ10U6f6Nph-lVZ9W4Mdmc5JTDxAYA46zqzjSir6Px5nI28YqJ/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDIanP2pzwACC_fgaIPVwK07vEwB6lElGG-bBlVGuisjKA7f6py8f_VFj6Ijyu0dncfGIeZYBPkGN4Xz-viwFl0OZ77wQHMMCrZvZw8PkJesEt9rHpp5t6IkVK8N0Q_bEt6amhYyzwm1LJ10U6f6Nph-lVZ9W4Mdmc5JTDxAYA46zqzjSir6Px5nI28YqJ/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>When Naomi Judd died by suicide in 2022, after a long struggle with mental illness, her daughter Ashley found her. In this deeply moving, revealing, and insightful conversation Ashley Judd talks about the trauma she has worked hard to face, the grief she now feels, and how her mother’s spirit is still very much alive in her life. </i><a href="https://www.cnn.com/audio/podcasts/all-there-is-with-anderson-cooper/episodes/c6f1854e-741e-11ee-b574-a365222f4828" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Anderson Cooper interviews Ashley Judd: Grief, Love and Naomi</a> <b>« All There Is With Anderson Cooper<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/understanding-and-managing-grief_14.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-86616006196412648162024-01-08T09:03:00.001-05:002024-01-08T09:03:32.028-05:00In Grief: Surviving A Brother's Fatal Accident<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_KV9axaoBlMT-e6E7_HrBWCjG0BAkNMPrZZrP2VJsI0finXMaOUhxMLjR4qfAkeDJfdMB5Wb9Tw4-2kqzjHlO3aGQ106UFHfgJMwozXlECuVz4Uwd5q5JSPcMPLHxEnuCOEC6i1fQBWNiLZNqHdTj1c-1yuLXnTTiyqan1tVW2T0NpZ7oh2PhVC2gUNO/s640/AutoAccident2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="419" data-original-width="640" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7_KV9axaoBlMT-e6E7_HrBWCjG0BAkNMPrZZrP2VJsI0finXMaOUhxMLjR4qfAkeDJfdMB5Wb9Tw4-2kqzjHlO3aGQ106UFHfgJMwozXlECuVz4Uwd5q5JSPcMPLHxEnuCOEC6i1fQBWNiLZNqHdTj1c-1yuLXnTTiyqan1tVW2T0NpZ7oh2PhVC2gUNO/s320/AutoAccident2.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>To the outside world we all grow old. But not to brothers and sisters. We know each other as we always were. We know each other’s hearts. We share private family jokes. We remember family feuds and secrets, family griefs and joys. We live outside the touch of time.</i> ~ Clara Ortega<p></p><div><div class="MsoNormal"><b>A reader writes: </b><i>I'm going through a very difficult time. My oldest brother (39) died a month ago in a car wreck. We were super close as I lived with him for 5 years and he was always protecting me and giving me his support and guidance ( I'm 31). Even before he died he told me how much he loved me and to take care of my belly, that we will see each other in a few days -- but this never happened and I'm devastated! He was so full of life. His wife recently had a baby, they both had great jobs and just bought a new house. He had so many dreams but was robbed of all of them by a negligent driver! I'm so full of anger and hate!</i></div></div><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/in-grief-surviving-brothers-fatal.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-60921243167788163562024-01-07T00:03:00.001-05:002024-01-07T00:03:15.954-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, December 31 - January 6, 2024<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJsuIPFOXprDpO-M94SllMToxarsxiSEqJi_AhiPD4W0maQNkx_H1SH5nFzwxj-QzUfwucmDhk11q1Mv6GCP5Z1jgZJqO3FVlFrhvAo73NVQMy6mUxEu8ccs6VrTQl7EZgra6rWxAX2m8X8-_lUFuYNHAPwpWorTbSrdnZ_cUQc-Knb_D56jDSPCVtCqc/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDJsuIPFOXprDpO-M94SllMToxarsxiSEqJi_AhiPD4W0maQNkx_H1SH5nFzwxj-QzUfwucmDhk11q1Mv6GCP5Z1jgZJqO3FVlFrhvAo73NVQMy6mUxEu8ccs6VrTQl7EZgra6rWxAX2m8X8-_lUFuYNHAPwpWorTbSrdnZ_cUQc-Knb_D56jDSPCVtCqc/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Normal grief is a process that varies from person to person. </i><i>Prolonged Grief Disorder occurs when this process is derailed. </i><i>Normal grieving is supported by joining specialized groups of mourners and cultural and religious customs. </i><i>Prolonged Grief Disorder Therapy focuses on healing themes and achieving milestones as recovery progresses. </i><b><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/on-call/202401/grief-what-is-normal-and-what-is-prolonged-grief-disorder" target="_blank">Grief: What Is Normal and What Is Prolonged Grief Disorder</a></b> <b>« Psychology Today<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/understanding-and-managing-grief.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-28189480023568124612024-01-01T08:56:00.001-05:002024-01-01T08:56:51.218-05:00In Grief: When A Counseling Relationship Is Ending<p><i></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZGgah2Xfivcc4Rf5RRCc2diH8o5LyaF8oLEtmfwM7bjRv5BHiAw57f_d19XgpkjBlpCo2JUW9ZLOfNqeGuE5IIyrMYnwQdIDe4p9iuOkLP9NDlESnBfVF_51dfh2qw87UD_bkj-zgk_4VpS4j_ot_1i8NEEicIxy5QzjxlgZEniR8Bl7eW6Zxrycr-As/s640/Goodbye2.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="325" data-original-width="640" height="163" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsZGgah2Xfivcc4Rf5RRCc2diH8o5LyaF8oLEtmfwM7bjRv5BHiAw57f_d19XgpkjBlpCo2JUW9ZLOfNqeGuE5IIyrMYnwQdIDe4p9iuOkLP9NDlESnBfVF_51dfh2qw87UD_bkj-zgk_4VpS4j_ot_1i8NEEicIxy5QzjxlgZEniR8Bl7eW6Zxrycr-As/s320/Goodbye2.jpg" width="320"></a></i></div><i>The only person you should ever fear losing in a relationship is you yourself.</i> ~ Miya Yamanouchi<p></p><div><b>A reader writes: </b><i>My situation isn't really typical of the reasons most people join your forums, but I am experiencing terrible grief and it's not something I can talk to anyone about because most people don't recognize or understand it. I feel incredibly alone.<br><br>I've seen a counselor for coming up to three years and she has helped me through some of the most difficult times of my life. I have a tough life with a long-term illness and I have a disabled child so I feel really isolated. I've been fortunate enough to see my counselor free at an agency and I feel really close to her. I'm not close to my family at all as I had a tough upbringing and I don't see my friends very often. I'm a single parent since my marriage broke down 5 years ago.<br><br>My counselor told me 4 weeks ago that she is leaving the agency due to personal circumstances.</i><br></div><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2024/01/in-grief-when-counseling-relationship.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-79400316084819497262023-12-31T09:45:00.001-05:002023-12-31T09:45:22.727-05:00Understanding and Managing Grief, December 17 - December 30, 2023<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRAdXU0smt-9bpTYkVxfko93SZ9wxTLrikL1WpKDpAgQaehNJfhjy8f41bjk-oMZzS77gmDXv6t7HSC8x-Txoklk2UVW9LgXYAOrK04UIICc8Sg-wE3Z-cTzNfsB7HRbygLSjga0x-6y1FN_hfvA72MaOFWe4merj06lT7l0ff3utTShiz8-YrG-vf83l/s250/X%20Icon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="250" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHRAdXU0smt-9bpTYkVxfko93SZ9wxTLrikL1WpKDpAgQaehNJfhjy8f41bjk-oMZzS77gmDXv6t7HSC8x-Txoklk2UVW9LgXYAOrK04UIICc8Sg-wE3Z-cTzNfsB7HRbygLSjga0x-6y1FN_hfvA72MaOFWe4merj06lT7l0ff3utTShiz8-YrG-vf83l/w200-h200/X%20Icon.jpg" width="200"></a></div>Best selections from <a href="https://twitter.com/GriefHealing" target="_blank"><b>Grief Healing's X feed</b></a> this week:<p></p><p><i>Much about growing older involves loss: of physical strength, mental acuity, and social relevance. </i><i>Learning to view death as a prelude to something larger is a skill we can begin while still alive. </i><i>As we learn to drop away the extraneous, the essential can shine through more clearly.</i><b> </b><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/putting-psyche-back-into-psychotherapy/202306/the-grief-of-growing-older" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">The Grief of Growing Older</a> <b>« Psychology Today<span></span></b></p><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2023/12/understanding-and-managing-grief_31.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-46767096589890950422023-12-25T09:12:00.002-05:002024-01-07T00:12:06.796-05:00My Wish for You This Christmas<p><em></em></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; color: #38761d; font-family: inherit; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwkGBkV8Q3B3_NvQ-FVmhoqPMq7IWsR7XMWHiT4JUrU-XDotSTQBVfg5et07OXNw2wnx-KBQ8B67lKIPxE5H3sQLwu_kG1gsJULxWJQpHgEXzB5O8KLQ-0tPN_sh53p6XraWL3HCOWMGKou2ShbxTCmMYAY9anXer4Lt8IHV-qVX7uwLERo9EiWsOzRNZ/s640/Poinsettias.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTwkGBkV8Q3B3_NvQ-FVmhoqPMq7IWsR7XMWHiT4JUrU-XDotSTQBVfg5et07OXNw2wnx-KBQ8B67lKIPxE5H3sQLwu_kG1gsJULxWJQpHgEXzB5O8KLQ-0tPN_sh53p6XraWL3HCOWMGKou2ShbxTCmMYAY9anXer4Lt8IHV-qVX7uwLERo9EiWsOzRNZ/s320/Poinsettias.jpg" width="320"></a></em></div><span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><div><span><span style="font-family: georgia;"><i>Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love. ~ </i>Hamilton Wright Mabie</span></span></div><div style="color: #38761d; font-size: large; font-style: italic;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><em><span style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><br></span></em></span></div><i style="color: #38761d;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Every time a hand </span></i><br></span><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: georgia; font-size: medium;"><em>reaches out<br></em><em>to help another ~<br></em><em>that is Christmas.<span></span></em></span></span><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2023/12/my-wish-for-you-this-christmas.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5163377615656061205.post-76487814598361682862023-12-18T10:24:00.002-05:002024-02-20T10:28:31.584-05:00In Grief: Struggling With Thoughts of Suicide<div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86QuB3y77qV9KZ8wJH5f06bDkxO1yLeXiqgH52LyskO0QIAa8svhxHssTVC71lzOkr2fI5zHqT3CaLCPhnnmX8rWoDviNEs3aznEh5nbmisFSvZEqmT5RoQ2XxOZwGYkxla-g6INtJp2-BW_5qP-T7DQLRp-v-X2G8LTyz953srL9ZKZLo_A-GarRKC3r/s640/CryingWoman3.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86QuB3y77qV9KZ8wJH5f06bDkxO1yLeXiqgH52LyskO0QIAa8svhxHssTVC71lzOkr2fI5zHqT3CaLCPhnnmX8rWoDviNEs3aznEh5nbmisFSvZEqmT5RoQ2XxOZwGYkxla-g6INtJp2-BW_5qP-T7DQLRp-v-X2G8LTyz953srL9ZKZLo_A-GarRKC3r/s320/CryingWoman3.jpg" width="320"></a></div><div><i>[Reviewed and updated <span style="color: #2b00fe;"><b>February 20, 2024</b></span>]</i></div><div style="font-weight: bold;"><b><br></b></div><b>A reader writes:</b> <i>My beloved died earlier this month, and I can't stop thinking about ending this hell. I know I should stay here for my kids - they don't deserve to lose yet another parent and would be devastated. But I can't see going on like this. Even for one more week. It's just impossible. I'm on antidepressants and sedatives, but I still feel frantic with pain, grief and loneliness. Is this normal? Will I make it? </i>Should<i> I even make it? Or would it be easier to just quit now? I can't even bring myself to pick up the phone and talk to anyone.<span></span></i><a href="https://www.griefhealingblog.com/2023/12/in-grief-struggling-with-thoughts-of.html#more">CLICK HERE TO READ MORE>>></a>Marty Tousley, RN, MS, FThttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05517952534831180171noreply@blogger.com0