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asp-_A2New Contributor
Hi my mum died 18 months ago after a long battle with dementia. She always knew me and we always had the best relationship for my whole 65 years. I loved her dearly but haven't grieved for her since the day of her funeral. I don't know how to. Can you please help me?
In response to: How to grieve when you are numb
Boris2024Moderator
Hey @asp-_A2
Welcome to the SANE Forums. Thank you for joining us and sharing what's on your mind.
I'm sorry to hear that your mum passed away, and thank you for telling us about the close relationship you shared. Grief can look different for everyone, particularly after a loved one's long illness, and there is no right way or timeframe to grieve. Asking for support is a meaningful step.
Our Forums are a peer community where you can share your experiences and connect with others at your own pace. You might find our Grief and Loss space helpful, where members talk about grief and what has helped them. There are also some practical tips and resources here: https://griefline.org.au/resources/coping-with-grief/.
If you would also like individual support, SANE's Recovery Club offers free one-on-one sessions with SANE staff, who can talk through your experience of grief with you and explore ways to cope. Here is the registration page: Welcome to SANE's Recovery Club.
We're glad you reached out, and you're welcome to keep talking with us here.
In response to: How to grieve when you are numb
AppleblossomSenior Contributor
Maybe you are grieving her in your unique way @asp-_A2 You and your mother are unique. Some people cry a lot, some get angry, some go quiet and have an inner longing for their loved one. Some do a gentle tear up. Some want to remember good times. Maybe go through some photos or do a little journalling or light a candle or visit places with memories or her grave. Its an important relationship. I have done more grieving for my father decades later, as I needed the time to understand what happened in our lives. He died when I was young. Your grief journey is your own, but you can add the joy and love as well as the sadness and missing her, to your journey.
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Help us push aside the stigma and discrimination surrounding complex mental health and change the way people talk about, and care for, mental illness.
SANE acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
SANE values diversity. We are committed to providing a safe, culturally appropriate, and inclusive service for all people, regardless of their ethnicity, faith, disability, sexuality, or gender identity.
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