Working Through Loss and Grief in a Relationship

This month’s Ask Coach Kathy talks about working through loss and grief in a relationship.

My husband lost a sibling recently and I’m in unchartered territory. I want to do something to help take away his deep sadness, but I have no idea how I can help.

Watching a mate go through a heart-breaking loss is one of the biggest challenges in a relationship. Grief doesn’t come with a quick fix for anybody. It has its own timeline and it’s different for each person.

Without hovering over your partner, keep an unobtrusive eye on him or her. Watch for nonverbal or verbal cues that he or she has some feeling or thought to share. You may notice your mate staring off into space, sighing, or crying.

Although words of love and comfort can be soothing, a touch can be a healing balm to the soul, as well.

You know your partner better than anyone. If being close by to pick up the slack around household chores makes him or her feel comforted, by all means, do that. Whatever can help lighten the load will work.

You may notice your mate needs more time alone than usual. Most likely, it’s not a rejection of you. He or she just needs time and space to process the loss.

Grief comes in waves. As time passes, the space between each wave gets wider. Be patient. Be kind. Your mate’s heart will heal.

To learn more about the specifics on how to have a family meeting, but you aren’t sure where to start?  Download your free Family Meeting Guidelines here!

 

Do you have sensitive issues in your relationships that you need help with? Ask Coach Kathy about it. Submit your question to Coach Kathy using the form below: