04 May Honoring Bereaved Mothers: Validating Your Grief on Mother’s Day

By Amanda Brindle, LSW, Family Service Coordinator

Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate and honor the love and sacrifices of mothers everywhere. However, for those who have lost a child, this day can bring up feelings of sadness, grief, and even anger. As a bereaved mother your pain is completely valid, and your grief is undoubtedly real.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day, we would like to pay tribute to you and acknowledge your emotions. Here are a few ways that can assist you in managing this challenging day:

Acknowledge your loss.

It is important to acknowledge your loss and to allow yourself to feel whatever emotions come up. You may feel sad, angry, or even guilty on this day. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve, and your feelings are valid.

Surround yourself with support.

Lean on your support system, whether it’s family, friends, or a support group. Talk about your feelings and memories of your child and allow yourself to be comforted. You don’t have to go through this alone.

Honor your child’s memory.

Take time to honor your child’s memory in a way that feels meaningful to you. This could be lighting a candle, visiting their grave or memorial, or creating a special tribute. Doing something to honor your child can bring a sense of peace and comfort.

Practice self-care.

It’s essential to take care of yourself on Mother’s Day, both physically and emotionally. This may mean taking a break from social media or other triggers that could bring up painful emotions. Instead, focus on doing things that bring you comfort and joy.

To all grieving mother, please know that your sorrow is deeply felt, and you deserve all the love and recognition on Mother’s Day. Your grief is valid, and we honor you and your precious child. Remember, you are not alone, and it’s okay to take the time you need to honor your child’s memory and take care of yourself. May this Mother’s Day bring you peace, comfort, and love.