Loss of parents and anniversary

[dragon74]

So not really sure where to start. In October last year I lost my mum cancer and then 5 months later lost my dad to cancer. This week is the first anniversary and I am not coping at all. I havn’t dealt with either death and seriously need some grief counselling. Just have no idea what to say to be honest

Topic

[carolinedeg]

I am no professional but I lost my dad 3 weeks and 1 day ago and I still hurt. To lose both your parents so close together must be devastating.

[VM-Rose]

Hello Dragon74,

I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your mum and dad, I can’t imagine how painful and overwhelming this must feel especially at the one year anniversary. It sounds like you are struggling to make sense of it all and it’s difficult to cope right now. Feeling this way after losing your mum and dad to cancer in such a short period of time is completely understandable. Grief can feel overwhelming and unpredictable and I want to acknowledge the strength and courage it must of taken for you to reach out to others and get the support you need. You mentioned grief counselling and i’m not sure where you are based but if you live in NSW you may be eligible for the integrated grief program which offers 6 free sessions with a grief counsellor details below

Free bereavement counselling NSW

If you are living in other states we have a directory on our website of counsellors who also offer grief counselling,
https://theaca.net.au/home. or https://www.pacfa.org.au/portal/portal/Find-a-Therapist/Find-A-Therapist.aspx?hkey=8840626d-7a85-4e3f-951b-51d2f8b7bf94
Additionally you are always welcome to call Griefline’s Helpline on 1300 845 745 (8am – 8pm, 7 Days (AEDT) for a supportive conversation.
Thank you for reaching out and please continue to do so on the forum we are here to listen and support you. Take care

• This reply was modified 2 weeks, 6 days ago by onlinecommunity.

[VM-Lucyk]

Hello Dragon74, thank you for sharing on the forum. Grieving a parent is such a significant loss so I can only imagine how difficult it must be for you to be grieving the loss of both of your parents. It’s understandable that you are feeling like this especially as it is the death anniversary. People who experience multiple losses can find it challenging to cope with their loss, or losses individually, and can feel lost at times as it can feel overwhelming. I hope that you are being kind and gentle with yourself. I also hope that you have some time and space to sit with your grief as uncomfortable as it can feel. People who are grieving often find naming their emotions to be helpful, and these emotions that you are feeling are temporary. It’s also ok to ask for help from any supports including friends. You are not alone, and there are supports out there to help you. Feel free to call Grief Line on 1300 845 745 (8am-8pm 7 days a week) to speak to a caring volunteer who has been trained in grief support.

Lucy.

[Author]

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