Living Forward

The Journal · Reflections

Losing More Than Just Your Person

Why grief sometimes costs us friendships too — and what to do about it.

It’s not uncommon for people experiencing grief to lose other people. It’s usually due to one or more of the following three reasons.

1. For some, they are uncomfortable with even the idea of grief.

So they back off, meaning to reconnect once you are feeling “better.” That doesn’t happen because their life continues on normally, and they forget to reconnect.

2. For some, they want to give you space.

So they back off, meaning to reconnect once you are feeling “better.” That doesn’t happen because their life continues on normally, and they forget to reconnect.

3. For some, they don’t know what to say or do.

So they back off, meaning to reconnect once you are feeling “better.” That doesn’t happen because their life continues on normally, and they forget to reconnect.

What can you do about this?

I suggest reaching out to those with whom you want to continue to have a relationship. Tell them that you understand that it’s difficult for them to know what to say or do. Then tell them what you want them to say or do.

When people don’t give you what you need, sometimes you have to ask for it.

Take the next step

The door is open.

If anything in this resonated, the place to begin is a free twenty-minute call. No pitch. No follow-up unless you want one.

Book a Free 20-Minute Call