Parent Problems: How Does Losing a Parent Affect You?

Did you know that more than three million people died in 2020?

Death affects every person at some point in their lives. You might be coping with losing a parent now. 

If this death occurred recently, you might be wondering how losing your parent can affect you in the long run. 

This guide will discuss some of the things you might have experienced and some you might not be aware of yet. Keep reading to learn more. 

It Might Take Some Time to Process

Learning how to cope with losing a parent is a different process for everyone. If you’ve recently lost a parent, it might be taking you some time to move through the grieving process. 

When you first lose a parent, it might take some time before reality sets in. Part of the coping process is trying to protect yourself from the pain.

Pretending you haven’t suffered such a big loss can make it easier to move through life, but you’ll have to face your grief eventually. 

You’ll Start to Idolize Your Parent

Losing a parent at a young age can shift your perspective about the life your parent lived. You likely loved and respected your parent, and this is why it’s hard to have any negative thoughts about them. 

Remembering and honoring your parent in the best way is what feels right. One thing you should remember, however, is that no one is perfect. While your parent was likely a wonderful person, it’s ok to think about the bad moments as much as you think about the good ones. 

You Can Feel Guilty at Times 

Feeling guilt after losing a parent is something everyone goes through. You’ll probably replay the day they died in your head over and over again, whether you were there or not. 

You’ve probably asked yourself what you could’ve done differently every day since their death. Guilt is a normal feeling to go through when you lose a parent, but it’s important to remember that their death is not your fault. 

You’ll Also Feel Lost 

Your 20s are a time of change and growth. While you’re becoming independent, this is a time where you need the most advice from your parents. 

Losing a parent in your 20s can lead you to feel lost. When you don’t have a parent who’s always been there for you to guide you through the next stage in your life, you can start to lose your way. 

The Important Moments Will Be Hard

Losing parents is hard no matter where you are in life. One of the hardest things about this loss, however, is going through the big life moments without your parent. 

Graduating from college, getting married, or having children after your parent has died can make all these great moments a little sad. 

The Ways Losing a Parent Can Affect You

Losing a parent can leave a profound impact on your life. It can lead you to feel guilt or cause you to feel lost for some time. The grieving process is hard, but time can heal your heart. 

Check out some of our other blogs if you want to learn more about this process.