How to Deal with the Grief of Losing a Parent

Grief
March 26, 2025

Dealing with the death of a parent is one of the most difficult experiences a person can go through.

Grief can be all-consuming and overwhelming.

You may feel like you will never be able to move on or be happy again.

Here are some tips for dealing with this type of grief.  

Allow Yourself to Grieve

It is important to allow yourself to grieve in whatever way works best for you.

There is no right or wrong way to grieve.

Some people need to express their emotions while others prefer to keep them bottled up.

Some people find solace in their faith while others find comfort in their friends and family.

There is no correct way to grieve, so do whatever feels right for you.  

Allow Yourself to Grieve

It is important to allow yourself to grieve in whatever way works best for you.

There is no right or wrong way to grieve.

Some people need to express their emotions while others prefer to keep them bottled up.

Some people find solace in their faith while others find comfort in their friends and family.

There is no correct way to grieve, so do whatever feels right for you.

Give Yourself Time

Grieving takes time. There is no set timeline for grieving, so take as much time as you need.

Grief can come in waves, so even if you think you have moved on, something may trigger your grief and cause you to relive it all over again.

Be patient with yourself and allow yourself the time you need to heal.

a person looking out the window

Talk About Your Loved One

Talking about your loved one can be cathartic and help you to deal with your grief.

Share stories and memories with friends and family members.

You may also want to consider writing down your thoughts and feelings in a journal.

Keeping your loved one's memory alive will help you to cope with your loss.

Reach Out for Help

If you are struggling to cope with your grief, don't be afraid to reach out for help from a professional counselor or therapist.

They can help you work through your emotions and provide support during this difficult time.

Additionally, there are many support groups available for people who have lost a parent.

Talking with others who are going through the same thing can be helpful and make you feel less alone. 

FAQs about Grieving over the Death of a Parent

How long does it take to grieve the death of a parent?

There is no one answer to this question as everyone grieves in their own way and at their own pace. Some people may start to feel better after a few months, while others may find that it takes much longer. It is important to give yourself time to grieve and to allow yourself to experience all the different emotions that come with it.

What are some common symptoms of grief?

There is a wide range of symptoms that can be associated with grief, and not everyone will experience all of them. Some common symptoms include the feeling of isolation, numbness or disconnect from your emotions, feeling anger or resentful, difficulty sleeping, and struggling with your mental health.

What are some healthy ways to cope with grief?

There are many different ways to cope with grief, and what works for one person may not work for another. Some healthy coping mechanisms include talking about your feelings with friends or family members, writing about your thoughts and feelings in a journal, participating in activities that make you feel good, and spending time outdoors in nature.

What should I do if I am struggling to cope with my grief?

If you are finding it difficult to cope with your grief, it is important to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who can provide support and guidance. Additionally, there are many support groups available for people who are grieving the death of a loved one. These groups can provide a space for you to share your thoughts and feelings with others who are going through a similar experience.

How can I help my child who is grieving the death of a grandparent?

If your child is grieving the death of a grandparent, there are several things you can do to support them. First, it is important to talk about the death with your child and answer any questions they may have. You can also encourage them to express their emotions through art or writing, and help them find ways to remember their loved one such as making a photo album or planting a tree in their memory. Finally, it is important to be patient with your child as they go through the grieving process and let them know that it is okay to feel sad, angry, or confused.

What are some signs that I am ready to move on from my grief?

Signs that you are ready to move on from your grief include feeling more at peace and accepting the death of your loved one, being able to enjoy activities without feeling overwhelmed by sadness, spending time with friends and family without feeling guilty or anxious, and having moments of joy or happiness throughout the day. Additionally, if you find yourself feeling ready to start new projects or goals, this can be a sign that you are beginning to heal from your grief.

Overcomers Counseling is Here to Help

If you are struggling with the grief associated with the death of a parent, Overcomers Counseling can provide you with the help and support that you need.

Our experienced counselors will work with you to help you process your emotions, cope with your grief in healthy ways, and eventually move on with your life.

Contact us today to get started.

Conclusion

Losing a parent is one of the most difficult things a person can experience.

Grief can be all-consuming and overwhelming.

However, it is important to allow yourself to grieve in whatever way works best for you and give yourself time to heal.

Talking about your loved one can also be helpful, as well as reaching out for help from professionals or joining a support group.

Author
Jennifer Luttman, LPC, ACS

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, and owner of Overcomers Counseling. I'm dedicated to helping individuals find strength and healing through life’s challenges. With a deep understanding of mental health and years of professional experience, I specialize in fostering hope and resilience while equipping her clients with tools to thrive. Passionate about empowering others, she creates a safe, supportive space where everyone feels seen, valued, and capable of overcoming obstacles on their path to well-being.

Common Questions about Grief

How long does it take to get over a breakup?

There is no set timeline for overcoming a breakup. Everyone deals with grief in their own way and on their own time. While some may be able to move forward quickly, others may take longer. Remember that it's normal to experience a range of emotions as you heal and don't rush the process.

When is grief usually the worst?

Grief can be particularly intense in the early days following a loss. However, it's not uncommon for grief to become more pronounced at certain times, like at night or in the morning. This can be due to the mind being busy processing the events that happened.

I'm dreading the holidays because I know they will be so hard without my loved one. How can I get through them?

It is completely normal to feel dread or even fear when thinking about the upcoming holiday season. One way to ease your anxiety is by planning ahead and being prepared for how you will deal with tough moments. If there are certain events you know will be difficult, try to come up with an exit strategy beforehand so you can leave if needed. It can also be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor before the holidays to help you manage your expectations and emotions.

What are some helpful things I can say to an elderly loved one who is grieving?

It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is grieving, but sometimes simply being there for them and offering your support can be helpful. You might try saying something like, "I'm here for you if you need to talk" or "I'm sorry for your loss." You could also offer to help with practical tasks such as running errands or cooking meals.

What are the stages of grief?

The stages of grief, according to the Kübler-Ross model, include denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. However, it's important to note that not everyone will experience all these stages, or in this order. Grief is a highly individual process.

What is complicated grief or prolonged grief disorder?

Complicated grief, also known as prolonged grief disorder, is when intense grief symptoms continue for an extended period, often longer than six months. This type of grief can result in difficulty resuming normal life activities and can lead to sleep problems.