A Parent’s Right To Grieve | Your Grief Journey Is Just As Important As Your Child’s

When families experience a loss, parents often direct their attention to supporting their children or other family members over themselves, thinking this is “the best way.” However, processing your grief is just as important. Even if your child can sense that you are trying to support them, if they see that you are neglecting yourself, this communicates to them not to prioritize their grief journey.

Know that children watch their parents and mimic what they see. So, if the parent is dismissive of their emotions, the child will mimic such tendencies. Putting yourself last does not help your child’s grieving process. In many instances, sharing with your child how you are feeling helps validate your child’s feelings by showing them that their emotions are normal. Show yourself the same amount of support, patience, and grace that you show to others. You have a right to grieve and process your feelings.