Grieving as an adult is very different than grieving as a child. I’m not saying it hurts more, but you’re wiser and understand more. I lost my Papas when I was almost 13; this was my first experience with death. I grew up very close with him, always over for lunch and after school while my parents worked. He was very important in making me the strong woman I am today, and then all of a sudden—poof—that relationship is just gone. I think when you’re young, you don’t have the time to reflect and put it all together.
At the age of 29, I lost my uncle. When the photo above was taken, I was grieving that loss and just getting over my dad being in the hospital for something quite serious. I was struggling but doing my best to smile and be a good sport.
I had internalized so much of my grief and feelings, and for months I had a constant heavy chest, frequent heart palpitations, and full-on anxiety attacks. No one around me knew the full extent of my anxiety until I forced myself to talk about it with some of my family.
I’ve come a long way since then, but I just want everyone to remember to ask your loved ones how they’re doing. Simply opening that door can invite the start of an important conversation, a needed hug, and/or a cry. And to those struggling, I know it’s hard, but try your best to ask someone for help—you’ll feel better for it. Let’s take care of each other.