Today’s episode turns to pregnancy and infant loss as we acknowledge October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. We want to spend time honoring all parents who have experienced this unique type of loss. Everyone who experiences a pregnancy or infant loss goes through the grief in their own way and at their own pace, and there are specific ways that we can offer support. Let’s dive into this difficult subject together.
Show Highlights:
- Why you owe no one an explanation about how you feel, why you feel it, or how long you feel it.
- Why people very often don’t know what to say for a number of possible reasons
- Why some people may choose not to share openly about their loss
- Why shame, blame, and trauma accompany this kind of overwhelming loss
- How we can help erase the stigma, silence, and isolation that many people feel after a loss
- How it’s common to experience worry and anxiety in trying to become pregnant again after a loss
- How grief is not a linear process that begins and ends but affects multiple aspects of life
- How dates become significant in loss for many people, but others may feel awkward about remembering
- Why it’s OK to tell people to ask how you’re doing, check in on you, help remember the date, etc.
- Many great supports are available; check out our Resources section below!
Resources:
PSI Check out the therapist directory, free support groups, and more!
Return to Zero: Hope Check out the many resources!
I Had a Miscarriage by Jessica Zucker
Mom & Mind Loss-Related Episodes: 208, 206, 200, and 188–Visit Dr. Kaeni.
