Saying goodbye and difficult emotional experiences are often compared to rough seas, pitching us through crests and troughs as we’re carried along without control. As we attempt to navigate these treacherous waters, it’s essential for us to recognize that grief is a natural response to loss, and that coping with this depth of feeling requires an honest acknowledgment of our emotions. By allowing ourselves to truly feel and express the pain, we create room for healing and growth. Understanding that each individual’s journey is unique, and that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to grieving, is crucial to finding safe port in the storm during these trying times. 

1. Saying goodbye is emotional and challenging.

The experience of saying goodbye can often leave us overwhelmed with a torrent of unpredictable emotions, making it a challenging time to endure. Significant memories shared with that special person can play like a reel through our minds, kindling an earnest yearning for their presence. At times, parting ways / saying goodbye can leave us feeling a hollow emptiness, as we struggle to come to terms with the change it brings. These farewells highlight our vulnerability (which some struggle to accept or address), but simultaneously teach us to cherish the valuable connections and moments we were lucky enough to experience.

2. Coping with loss inevitably involves sadness and anger, but also acceptance.

It is essential to understand that working through these emotions is a natural and necessary process, as we learn to adapt to the new reality in the aftermath of losing something or someone dear to us. Often, it starts with overwhelming sadness — the sense of a void that permeates every aspect of our lives. Slowly, this gap may grow into anger, as thoughts about the unfairness of it all settle on us. We may find ourselves questioning why it happened to us, or looking for someone to blame. However, as time goes by, the storm will gradually break, and we can slowly let the process of acceptance begin. It is through this transformative phase that we can engage in the act of healing, appreciating the memories and exploring newfound peace that can alleviate the pain of loss.

3. Seeking support from loved ones, therapists, or support groups can help.

By sharing our concerns, fears, and emotions with others, we can ultimately emerge not only stronger, but more connected to those who matter most to us. Additionally, therapists can offer a professional and safe environment where we can explore our thoughts and feelings in depth, providing us with invaluable insights and coping strategies. For some, support groups offer a unique sense of camaraderie when it comes to facing shared challenges; being in the company of others who understand our experiences can ease feelings of isolation and create a powerful sense of belonging.

4. Expressing emotions through art or writing can be therapeutic.

Whether it be a painter applying their brush to create a canvas of colourful emotions, or a writer describing an immense swell of feelings with carefully crafted words, the process of translating one’s internal landscape into a tangible form allows for deep healing and introspection. As we lose ourselves in the creative flow, an important relationship forms between the creator and their creation, opening a channel for previously unexpressed emotions to come to the fore and provide a sense of catharsis. Thus, the beauty of using art or writing as a therapeutic tool lies not just in the creative work itself, but in the process of its making, and the transformative journey of self-discovery, vulnerability, and empowerment that unfolds along the way.

5. Exploring memories and creating new traditions can provide closure.

Engaging with important memories allows us to reconnect with our past, appreciate the lessons we’ve learned, and acknowledge that change is a natural part of life’s journey. Simultaneously, embracing new traditions allows us to grow and adapt, weaving fresh experiences into the tapestry of our lives. Together, these actions create a bridge between the past and present, providing us with much-needed closure and building a route towards understanding our future. Ultimately, honouring our memories and traditions offers us a powerful tool for healing, personal growth, and moving forward with newfound resilience and grace. For more informative topics, check out or news section – click here. Also, join our Facebook Community and connect with like minded people – join here.