What Is Disenfranchised Grief and How Can You Cope? Disenfranchised grief refers to a specific type of grief that doesn't feel safe or appropriate to publicly acknowledge. The added burden of this emotional pain can complicate an already challenging grieving process, and it can make people feel even more alone with their feelings. Examples of Disenfranchised Grief If you feel...[ read more ]
When you're in the throes of active grief, the idea of needing to set boundaries may, at first, seem downright insulting. You're already feeling emotional- and maybe even overwhelmed. Why do you need to assert limits with others during such a vulnerable time? Having boundaries in place can actually support your grief process. These guidelines convey to both you and...[ read more ]
Health anxiety- sometimes known as hypochondriasis- refers to excessive anxiety about your medical health. Health anxiety symptoms can occur at any time, but research shows that the onset typically occurs in early or middle adulthood. It can worsen with age, and it may be exacerbated if you or your loved ones have experienced concerning illnesses like cancer or dementia. What...[ read more ]
You've moved through an entire year of heartbreaking firsts. Along with certain holidays, wedding anniversaries and the loved one's birthday, the first death anniversary can be one of the hardest days in the grief process. As the day approaches, you may find yourself facing an abyss of sadness, anger, guilt, and fear. The grief may feel as raw as the...[ read more ]
We're in a loneliness epidemic. Research shows that over one-third of adults over age 45 feel lonely, and 25% of adults over age 65 are socially isolated from others. Loneliness, of course, can be such a painful emotion. And while loneliness isn't the same as physically being alone, many single people struggle with this chronic feeling. However, being single doesn't...[ read more ]
How to Manage Caregiving an Aging Parent With Your Siblings Being a caregiver for your parents is already challenging and complex. Adding siblings to the mix can make things feel even more difficult. While siblings may offer support and camaraderie during a vulnerable time, certain personality differences can exacerbate stress. This is especially true if tension already exists within your...[ read more ]
No matter how old your grandchildren are or what your relationship is like, there's no doubt that being a grandparent is a role quite unlike anything else. Being a good grandparent means being attentive, compassionate, and respectful of both your grandchildren and their parents. Although it may sound easy in theory, most grandparents know that real life tends to feel...[ read more ]
Grief affects us in ways no other tragedy does. The experience of grief is so raw and real, and it's such an intense reminder of the varied emotions we humans experience in this life. It can, in every way, feel entirely exhaustive. And if you feel overwhelmed by grief, you are not alone. You are having a normal response to...[ read more ]
Research suggests that approximately one-third of retirees experience depression symptoms after retirement. Unfortunately, many people aren't adequately prepared to manage their mental health after quitting the workforce. While your priorities may change in retirement, your life satisfaction matters. If you're struggling with depression after retirement, here are some tips to keep in mind. Signs of Clinical Depression After Retirement Depression...[ read more ]
It's estimated that chronic pain impacts anywhere between 18-35% of all Americans. But when we talk about chronic pain, we often focus on its impact on one's physical health, daily functioning, job performance, and individual satisfaction. However, there aren't many conversations about how this phenomenon affects loved ones. Living with a spouse that has chronic pain can be emotionally complex....[ read more ]