Friendships:
Every single relationship that we have is irreversably changed when we experience a loss. This means that our friendships also change. Some of our friends might not understand how to support us through grief, and others might feel too uncomfortable and fade away.
That part hurts.
But, there is a silver lining.
While the friendships that we thought were strong might weaken and fade, other relationships will seem to blossom and grow in a way they didn't before. And that, dear friend, is start of a wonderful thing.
To encourage and build these relationships, you might have to explore vulnerability in a way you hadn't before. Allow yourself to step into that slightly scary space for the sake of building those wonderful and genuine connections that will grow and lift you up even on your hardest days.
Allow those friendships to be a refuge and help you as you rediscover joy. Practice self-love, and through self-love, show your true self in these friendships. Friends that can show up even when things are heavy are showing that they are truly there for your whole self.
Therapy Groups:
There are many fantastic support groups specifically for grieving hearts of all kinds. Maybe this solution isn't for everybody, but for those folks looking for a community of people that are going through grief too, a therapy group could be an excellent way to feel less alone in feelings, and gain tools to work through difficult emotions.
I don't think that this is a one-size-fits-all moment. As you seek out a support group like this, feel empowered to shop around and ensure that the core values of the group align with your own, and that you feel heard and supported.
Online Communities:
Social media can be a wonderful resource when it comes to grief and loss. As we grieve it is normal to wonder if we are "doing it right" and to feel isolated at times. Social media can help remedy those feelings. I can honestly say that social media has brought me so many supportive and unique relationships.
As you explore these grief and loss spaces, you might notice a variety of different approaches. There are some folks that focus on how difficult loss is, some who focus on the hope aspect, and those that offer insight into the 'why' of how we experience grief.
Make sure you check in with yourself after interacting on social media. Are you feeling better or worse? Do you feel heard and seen, or are you having sympathy pains for others' loss. Follow and Unfollow accordingly.
No matter how you move forward, guard your heart relentlessly. You need to prioritize yourself in these delicate moments. Make sure you are surrounded by support and friendship that builds you up and makes you feel validated and heard. You deserve it.