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Anticipation grief of grandparent

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Home › Forums › Loss of a loved one › Anticipation grief of grandparent

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  • July 16, 2025 at 6:28 pm #39684
    vixeni
    Participant

    After the cancer diagnosis of my grandad, I was told yesterday that he will be heading towards end of life care. I am deeply hurt by this and I’m not sure what to do? My mind keeps racing thinking about the past present and future that my life will be without him. I wanted to put this here to see if anyone else has experienced this as this is the first time I will be experiencing grief to such extent. I want to head back to work but without constantly breaking down and my thoughts constantly racing through my mind.

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  • July 18, 2025 at 12:29 am #39706
    vance
    Participant

    I’m really sorry you’re going through this – it’s such a heavy, heartbreaking place to be. I went through something similar with a close family member, and the grief hit me in waves I didn’t expect. What helped me was talking to someone outside of my circle, I connected with Your Online Psychologist during that time, and it gave me space to work through the emotions without feeling overwhelmed at work or day-to-day. Everyone’s grief is different, but you’re not alone in how you’re feeling. Be gentle with yourself, and don’t hesitate to reach out if it gets too much.

    July 16, 2025 at 7:29 pm #39686
    VM-Buffalo3
    Participant

    Hi Vixeni,

    Thank you so much for sharing what you’re going through. I’m so sorry to hear about your grandad’s diagnosis and the news that he’s moving into end of life care. It’s completely natural to feel deeply hurt and overwhelmed as you try to process this news. I know you are not alone and glad you’ve come to our online community to reach out for support.

    What you’ve described with the racing thoughts, it’s very common with anticipatory grief. You’re grieving not only the changes happening now but also the idea of a future without your grandad. It can feel like your mind is constantly on high alert, so completely understandable that this makes heading back to work hard.

    If it feels helpful, you might try giving yourself small moments to pause & breathe when those racing thoughts come up. Even taking a few slow breaths or gently grounding yourself by noticing your surroundings can help ease the intensity. It’s also okay to let your workplace know you’re going through a tough time, if you feel comfortable doing so and that feels safe.

    Many people have experienced similar feelings, and reaching out as you’ve done here is a brave and important step. If it would help to talk more we’re here to listen and support you. You can call us on 1300 845 745 8am-8pm AEST 7 days per week.

    Take care of yourself.

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