Heres how to be there for a partner whose parent has died.
Self-help books often say some form of the phrase grief is not linear, too.
Even if their grief seems different from how youd express yours, dont discredit it.
Wake up every day ready to meet them where they are, and support them unconditionally.
I make jokes that are probably uncomfortable for people, but its my way of healing.
Expect that your partner could be distant for a while, too.
Shes in a happy relationship now, she added, but that took time.
Patience is literally key to being there for someone grieving, she added.
Sometimes, I just want to sit in a car for hours crying in silence.
Sometimes my anxiety takes over.
Sometimes I get jealous of seeing others with their moms.
All I can say is, Be patient with us.
We have been through hell and back.
It could seem like the death is all they talk about now.
If it is, thats fine.
Dont look at every emotional outburst like something that needs to be stopped in its tracks.
Grief is not linear, which makes the support process just as rocky.
This is a very difficult time and they might not be thinking clearly.
You have to take on an extra layer of rationality for a while.
There might be times when they dont tell you how they feel.
it’s crucial that you ask.
Let them cry, too.
Dont look at every emotional outburst like something that needs to be stopped in its tracks.
They need to let it out.
There might be times when they donttellyou how they feel.
Dont ignore that sadness.
Theyre going to get a lot of messages and phone calls.
Feel for those signs that maybe they dont need advice, or a things will get easier.
Sometimes a drink doesnt hurt, advised McGoldrick.
The grief doesnt stop after the funeral flowers and casseroles stop rolling in, either.
This will be hard for a long time and the pain will never really go away.
We check that we go visit my mom on those special days, too.
It warms my heart when he says goodbye to my moms stone and kisses it.
Talk about the dead parent with your partner if they seem open to it.
it’s possible for you to work on this healing journey together.
Dont discredit your own feelings here.
