Losing a parent is one of the most painful experiences we can face, and just thinking about it is unbearable. Whether we’re close to our parents or not, the loss of someone who gave us life brings profound emotional challenges.

At some point, we must confront the reality of losing someone so deeply connected to us. Death is an inevitable part of life, as are the truths that come with it.

Feeling Alone After Losing a Parent

The sense of loneliness that follows the loss of a parent is unlike any other. Suddenly, there’s an emptiness, a void that can’t be filled, as you come to terms with the fact that your mom or dad won’t be coming back. This stage of grief is excruciating, but in time, the pain eases, and life moves forward. You’ll learn to adapt to life without them, and while the physical connection is gone, their presence remains through memories and the bond you’ll always carry in your heart.

Changes in Support Systems

Parents often serve as pillars of support, offering guidance that’s unmatched. Losing this key part of your support system can feel destabilizing, making it difficult to focus on your goals and dreams. However, the wisdom and memories they left behind can still guide you. Even if you can’t see them, they’re always with you in spirit—just as they always promised.

Emotional Breakdowns

Grieving a parent is deeply personal, and everyone processes it differently. It’s normal to feel low energy or even withdraw for a while. Coping with such a loss is never easy, and it’s important not to set high expectations for yourself during this time. Allow yourself to grieve, rest, and heal. Remember that your parents would want you to live a full life, even in their absence.

You Never Fully Get Over Losing a Parent

The truth is, you never completely move past the loss of a parent. That sense of something missing will always linger. However, you can grow and learn from it. Accepting death as a natural part of life allows you to focus on making the most of the time you have left. Create meaningful memories, live your life fully, and know that one day, you’ll reunite with your parents. Until then, make them proud with the life you live.

Feeling Insecure

Seeing others with their parents can evoke complex emotions after you’ve lost one of yours. There may be moments of anger or jealousy toward those who still have time with their parents, especially if they seem to take it for granted. Instead of holding onto negativity, channel those feelings into encouraging others to cherish their loved ones. A phone call, a heartfelt letter, or a planned visit can create long-lasting memories. Life is precious; remind others—and yourself—not to take it for granted.

Regretting Mistakes

After losing a parent, it’s common to dwell on what you could’ve done differently. You may wish you’d spent more time with them or followed through on plans you’d made. But your parents wouldn’t want you to fixate on regrets. Instead of focusing on missed opportunities, remember the joyful moments you did share. Let those memories bring you peace, and use them as inspiration to create new ones moving forward.

Grieving the loss of a parent is a deeply personal journey, one that can take weeks, months, or even years. Healing happens in its own time and in its own way. For some, it helps to talk to friends or family, while others may benefit from working with a therapist or counselor.

If you feel overwhelmed, know that help is available. Services like BetterHelp offer access to licensed professionals who can guide you through the grieving process. Whether online or in-person, you don’t have to face this alone. Seeking support is a step toward finding peace and continuing to honor your parent’s legacy.