Ways to Cope
There is no one way to move through grief after the loss of a child.
These are some of the paths that helped me cope, and may gently support you too.
Take what resonates, and leave what doesn’t.
Gentle Support
In the early days, even the smallest things can feel like too much. I found that gentle support, taking a walk, spending time outdoors, practicing yoga, therapy, simple remedies, or just creating a quiet moment in the day, made a difference. Not everything worked, and that’s okay. You don’t have to do it all. Just try what feels manageable, and trust yourself to find what helps, one step at a time.
Hard Moments
Some moments feel heavier than others- birthdays, holidays, anniversaries, or even ordinary days that suddenly aren’t. I found these times especially difficult, often bringing a new wave of grief when I least expected it. There’s no way to fully prepare for them, but having a few gentle ways to move through them can help. You might choose to honor your child in a quiet way, buy yourself flowers or a beautiful candle, change traditions, or step away from what feels too hard. However it looks for you is okay. Take these moments as they come, and give yourself permission to do only what feels manageable.
Books & Resources
I found myself searching for answers, reading anything I could get my hands on, sometimes several books at once. Some offered comfort right away, others didn’t resonate at all. That’s something I learned along the way—not everything will feel right, and that’s okay. What matters is finding the pieces that speak to you, that give you even the smallest sense of understanding or peace. I’ve shared some of the books and resources that helped me, in case they might help you too. Take what resonates, and leave the rest.
