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Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:45 PM 18 hrs ago

I thought it would get better by now. Husband died 2-6 and I still can't sleep and must force

myself to eat and drink. Already receiving med treatment for depression and anxiety. This feels different than depression. It’s got guilt mixed in and feels 100 times worse.

I sympathize with everyone here and pray things get better. The entire process is made so much worse by the wars and economy. There’s no where to go where you feel safe and not fearful of the future.

77 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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I thought it would get better by now. Husband died 2-6 and I still can't sleep and must force (Original Post) Ziggysmom 18 hrs ago OP
(((((Hugs)))) applegrove 18 hrs ago #1
Hugs back at you! Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #22
Wishing you peace for your broken heart 💔 Chat wit us..you may be by yourself but you're not alone 🌺 Deuxcents 18 hrs ago #2
Thank you, wishing for peace for the world. Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #24
I hope it gets easier for you soon. There is no time frame for grief. LoisB 18 hrs ago #3
I am learning a lot from this forum. Was feeling really low today, but now I Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #25
I am sorry. I am most certainly no expert and my professional training is not in that area but hlthe2b 18 hrs ago #4
This sounds like it would be very helpful. Joinfortmill 17 hrs ago #9
Thank you for sharing. I'm in Wisconsin waiting for the weather to cooperate so I can get out more. Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #30
If you are physically up to it, cross country skiing on public golf courses in winter is another hlthe2b 16 hrs ago #32
Sunlight on the eyes IbogaProject 46 min ago #74
Understandable blm 18 hrs ago #5
Contact your local hospice for bereavement counseling SheltieLover 18 hrs ago #6
I joined a hospice group when my dad died Tree Lady 16 hrs ago #28
Yes, groups are incredibly powerful! SheltieLover 16 hrs ago #39
It's still very, very early. And grief is very different than depression. I know it's really Scrivener7 17 hrs ago #7
Prayed for you. Grief is painful. Joinfortmill 17 hrs ago #8
Buy a marble cover composition book and journal it out bucolic_frolic 17 hrs ago #10
Thank you. My daughter has polycystic kidney disease and Dr. Bergs keto diet really helps Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #36
I lost my son a little over 4 years ago crimycarny 17 hrs ago #11
Those two words said it all. GRIEF ILLITERATE. We get three whole days of bereavement leave Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #41
I swear if I heard "you're so strong" one more time crimycarny 14 hrs ago #59
One of my friends lost a child to suicide Marthe48 1 hr ago #71
Second the motion EuterpeThelo 2 hrs ago #69
Be kind to yourself and give yourself some slack. Grief never just goes away, it just Marie Marie 17 hrs ago #12
I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom. Diamond_Dog 17 hrs ago #13
It's too soon Lulu KC 17 hrs ago #14
Ziggysmom... dlilafae 17 hrs ago #15
When my fiance died suddenly in his early 30s, I walked the same trail every day for a year. femmedem 17 hrs ago #16
Grieve is a journey. traveler50 17 hrs ago #17
It is difficult to move on. A lttle over a month is pretty fast. Fla Dem 17 hrs ago #18
I am so terribly sorry. Trueblue Texan 16 hrs ago #19
DU Hug!!! Ponietz 16 hrs ago #20
I can't even imagine how it feels Tesha 16 hrs ago #21
I almost completely stopped eating for 3 years cpamomfromtexas 16 hrs ago #23
Grief is a very personal process BigmanPigman 16 hrs ago #26
Good thoughts and advice. yellow dahlia 16 hrs ago #37
❤️ underpants 16 hrs ago #27
Its only been about 6 weeks BonnieJW 16 hrs ago #29
Sending a virtual hug Tree Lady 16 hrs ago #31
(((gentle hug))) 🫂 mwmisses4289 16 hrs ago #33
Everything's harder in this environment. yellow dahlia 16 hrs ago #34
Hey Ziggysmom! Once again I realize just how VALUABLE this place is. calimary 16 hrs ago #35
I'd so sorry for your loss kimbutgar 16 hrs ago #38
"" AllaN01Bear 16 hrs ago #40
THANK YOU EVERYONE! Everyone will experience grief in their lifetime. It should not be Ziggysmom 16 hrs ago #42
hitthe2b is right, go outside Figarosmom 16 hrs ago #43
I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom. HeartsCanHope 16 hrs ago #44
Huggggggs, my friend and please be kind and gentle and loving niyad 16 hrs ago #45
Oh my dear Ziggysmom, My heart hurts for you as you are inching your way through this journey that was suddenly thrust KitFox 16 hrs ago #46
My deepest condolences to you. I share Hassler 16 hrs ago #47
I lost my wife of 40 years three years ago. kairos12 15 hrs ago #48
I'm sorry you are going through this Danmel 15 hrs ago #49
I am sorry for what you are gooing through and hope that you find some solace with it all soon. marked50 15 hrs ago #50
I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom... Bayard 15 hrs ago #51
It took me 7 years to feel better synni 15 hrs ago #52
Dear Ziggysmom, here is what helped me when my beloved died in October. MLAA 15 hrs ago #53
.... chowder66 15 hrs ago #54
you're being too hard on yourself Skittles 15 hrs ago #55
I am so sorry. BlueKota 15 hrs ago #56
Two of the very best ways to deal with grief for me, JMCKUSICK 15 hrs ago #57
This community is here for you. Moostache 15 hrs ago #58
{{ Hugs }} EKR's books helped me understand the physical component of grief GreatGazoo 14 hrs ago #60
I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom. highplainsdem 14 hrs ago #61
That's not that long malaise 13 hrs ago #62
Hugs my friend. Dunc 8 hrs ago #63
lost my hubby almost two years ago. SleeplessinSoCal 5 hrs ago #64
it is only a month. give it time. rampartd 3 hrs ago #65
Last night I was watching a documentary about Jane Austen mnhtnbb 3 hrs ago #66
I hope you find some peace and comfort JoseBalow 3 hrs ago #67
Oh, Ziggysmom EuterpeThelo 2 hrs ago #68
Sending you love gademocrat7 1 hr ago #70
My husband died in 2017 Marthe48 1 hr ago #72
My wife died 9/17/25 TexLaProgressive 57 min ago #73
I am so sorry for your loss. Wishing you love in a difficult time. 58Sunliner 45 min ago #75
It will get better spinbaby 41 min ago #76
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, and I am concerned over your struggle dealing with that loss. ... marble falls 8 min ago #77

Deuxcents

(26,672 posts)
2. Wishing you peace for your broken heart 💔 Chat wit us..you may be by yourself but you're not alone 🌺
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:50 PM
18 hrs ago

Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
25. I am learning a lot from this forum. Was feeling really low today, but now I
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:19 PM
16 hrs ago

don’t feel so alone.

hlthe2b

(113,778 posts)
4. I am sorry. I am most certainly no expert and my professional training is not in that area but
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:53 PM
18 hrs ago

I've certainly had my own share of grief over the years--experiencing the crash after the initial numbness (which is apparently quite common) wears off. The latter gets you through whatever horrible period of illness, death, funeral, notifications, people wanting to talk to you, post-financial issues and dealing with belongings-- all of that, but once it wears off. Wow.

I can only tell you what has helped me in every instance, albeit over many months or more. And that is getting outside--by myself and walking, walking, walking, walking--often with beautifully sad music and letting it all out where no one can hear me cry, scream, wail. Even if one is not physically able to do that, being out in nature really helped me and I know some others as well. But, the movement--whatever movement that might be is part of it. Finding purpose helps too--especially if it might directly or indirectly honor the memory of the one lost.

That sounds simplistic and i am sorry if so. But, it has helped me with three wrenching deaths--including the death of a beloved dog who helped get me through the first two human deaths on those long wrenching walks. So, I feel I should suggest it.

Best wishes.

Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
30. Thank you for sharing. I'm in Wisconsin waiting for the weather to cooperate so I can get out more.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:23 PM
16 hrs ago

I have two cats that are helping keep me sane.


hlthe2b

(113,778 posts)
32. If you are physically up to it, cross country skiing on public golf courses in winter is another
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:26 PM
16 hrs ago

ideal way to get outside (and boy will it warm you up quickly)... You might be surprised at others doing it or go through your local parks department to see if they have groups or classes or some way to meet up with others to do it. Teach you how, if you haven't done it before. Colorado has had a miserably warm, minimal snow winter, but I hear Wisconsin has had more than its share. Just a thought.

IbogaProject

(5,851 posts)
74. Sunlight on the eyes
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 10:10 AM
46 min ago

Trick is not through glasses or glass though can be through closed eyelids. 20 to 30 min 3 times a week can really help brighten emotions. Sunlight that way helps make setotonin. Since it's natural the only slight risk is cataracts later on. A study was done in Japan on the long lived and cataracts were universal beyond typical occurance in that cohort. Cataract surgery has gotten amazing as of late so just get eye checkups as that comes on gradually.

Yes you are at increased risk for even death during this first 6 months as your whole routine and most significant emotional support is gone now. And those stages of grief dont always go in order or in a forward direction.

Please take care, my Mom was windowed when I was 11, so I was a way for her to keep moving with life. My Mom found a widow's group helped her that first year.

Keep posting here. Happiness shared is doubled, Sadness shared is halved. That is traditional wisdom.

blm

(114,627 posts)
5. Understandable
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:53 PM
18 hrs ago

and reasonable given the global trauma that is being inflicted at the same time you are dealing with such a deep loss. 🤔

SheltieLover

(80,035 posts)
6. Contact your local hospice for bereavement counseling
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:56 PM
18 hrs ago

They are specially trained to help people resolve their grief.

Healing vibes on the way to you.

SheltieLover

(80,035 posts)
39. Yes, groups are incredibly powerful!
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:33 PM
16 hrs ago

Glad you joined & found peace through the process.

Scrivener7

(59,383 posts)
7. It's still very, very early. And grief is very different than depression. I know it's really
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:57 PM
17 hrs ago

hard to believe this, but grief is a productive process. It will eventually pull you through this. But it does take time and there is no way to get around it.

I'm so sorry for your hard time.

Joinfortmill

(21,036 posts)
8. Prayed for you. Grief is painful.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 04:58 PM
17 hrs ago

When you're ready a grief group of some sort might help a bit.

bucolic_frolic

(54,960 posts)
10. Buy a marble cover composition book and journal it out
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:02 PM
17 hrs ago

The act of putting fingers to pen to paper helps the mind work things out. Over time you'll see patterns, you see how some thoughts repeat, and therefore something that needs attention or a different perspective.

Can't sleep? Get to sleep, or stay asleep? I take 1mg melatonin and a folate tablet about 9pm, 50mg magnesium and a mega dose of vitamin D after dinner. This per some ideas from YouTube's Dr. Berg. At least I sleep well, and that was not always the case.

We all don't feel safe. I see erratic things in the stores. Gasoline stations were usually within 10 cents of each other. Now some are 35 cents higher than the others. Don't know if the difference reflects old contracts, storage, or price gouging. Food prices are up and up. The same products can vary by $2 or more store to store. Some stores are sparsely stocked. Some products I can't find. WalMart had no cranberry sauce.

People are jolted. I encountered two drivers on the same back road barreling down the middle. I would have been run into a ditch if I hadn't blown my horn early and loud. And they look at me like I've got no right to be there. Who are you to toot at me before I run you over?

Hope this helps, hang in there, take an hour to put it out of your mind, talk to family or friend weekly.

Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
36. Thank you. My daughter has polycystic kidney disease and Dr. Bergs keto diet really helps
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:33 PM
16 hrs ago

decrease the size and number of cysts in the kidneys. Your driving experience sounds horrific. I find people today just don’t value life and it’s deeply distressing.

Take care ❤️

crimycarny

(2,081 posts)
11. I lost my son a little over 4 years ago
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:18 PM
17 hrs ago

I lost my son to suicide at age 25, just a little over 4 years ago. One thing I learned very quickly about our society is how grief-illiterate we are. It is a pain that can't be described, as there are no human words for the devastation, the complete implosion of your entire belief system and reason for existence.

I got so much "advice" from people who had no clue. Megan Devine's book, "It's Ok You're Not Ok: Meeting Grief and Loss in a Culture That Doesn't Understand," was a lifesaver. Megan Devine talks about this same sort of "advice" she got, as well as the judgment (she lost her fiancé, who drowned in a river as they were walking together).

My advice would be to find a support group of people with similar loss, and I highly recommend Megan Devine's book.

David Kessler has a website, "grief.com". He was a grief counselor who worked with Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. Then he lost his son, he said that after losing his son (overdose), he wanted to go to every patient he'd counseled and apologize. What he thought he knew about grief, he realized he'd gotten all wrong. I just visited his site, and he has a free live event coming up on 3/24: "When a Spouse Dies: Support for the Loneliness No One Talks About." If you register for the event, you will get a link to a video of it in case you can't attend live.

I'm so sorry for your devastating loss.

Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
41. Those two words said it all. GRIEF ILLITERATE. We get three whole days of bereavement leave
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:39 PM
16 hrs ago

from work. People expect you to just flip a switch and go on with your life. What has happened to caring and empathy?

My condolences for your son. Thank you for the info about Kessler; I have read Kubler-Ross. I will tune in to the event 3/24.

Hugs.

crimycarny

(2,081 posts)
59. I swear if I heard "you're so strong" one more time
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:09 PM
14 hrs ago

I got so tired of being told how "strong" I was from people who had no clue what grief actually feels like. It was like they were patting me on the back and giving me a grade on my grief. Grief has nothing to do with "strength"; what choice did I have? Every day is a struggle to get through. Grief is ugly, messy, and not some sort of valiant, noble journey.

Lisa Marie Presley talked about her grief after losing her son, Benjamin, to suicide. She talked about the inanity of being told how "strong" she was. She said, "What does that even mean? Just throw sh*t at me, and I'll survive?"

This is the most difficult journey a human being can walk, and each person's journey is unique to them. Don't ever let anyone try to tell you what yours should look like. Some go off to start foundations in their loved one's honor, some barely make it out of bed, and all sorts of in-between. All are brave, all are real.

Marthe48

(23,104 posts)
71. One of my friends lost a child to suicide
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 09:04 AM
1 hr ago

She joined several suicide awareness groups and survivors support. One of them is called Ugly Shoes.

EuterpeThelo

(324 posts)
69. Second the motion
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 08:55 AM
2 hrs ago

on the Megan Devine book. No other book spoke to me as much as that one in the aftermath of loss.

You can also get a workbook that accompanies her main book (although I didn't use that, I know journaling and prompts can be helpful for some).

Marie Marie

(11,229 posts)
12. Be kind to yourself and give yourself some slack. Grief never just goes away, it just
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:19 PM
17 hrs ago

begins to lessen over time. But that happens after the initial shock of grief and depression and you are probably solidly in that phase. Counseling might help and you are always welcome to come share with us. We care,,,

Diamond_Dog

(40,444 posts)
13. I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:20 PM
17 hrs ago

What you’re feeling is totally understandable. Please know that so many of us here are wishing you love, strength, and hope.

Lulu KC

(8,856 posts)
14. It's too soon
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:37 PM
17 hrs ago

One year to step one of feeling better is what I generally observe. Give yourself time and whatever else you need.

femmedem

(8,559 posts)
16. When my fiance died suddenly in his early 30s, I walked the same trail every day for a year.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:41 PM
17 hrs ago

In the best of weather, it was calming. In the worst, it reminded me how hard survival is for most living things, that most living things don't die of old age, and that my fiance dying wasn't unfair or uniquely tragic, just a hard fact of the world. I'm not religious, but it helped to think that molecules that he breathed were all around me, that even molecules that had passed through his porous skin were here, too.

I also couldn't sleep, and didn't eat for several weeks. I couldn't focus enough to read anything except writings about death and bereavement; everything else was just letters swirling around a page.

But one day, as I drifted asleep, I realized that for the first time, I'd made it through an entire day without crying. Of course, that made me sob. But then there were other days, and others, until it became the norm.

For a while, time was my enemy, for it seemed that every day pushed me further away from him. But time then became my friend, for it eventually allowed me to remember the love more than the grief.

This was decades ago, and I didn't have friends my own age who had been through it. I hope that you know some people who understand from experience, or that people who know you a little bit will step forward and offer support. People who did that for me got me through it.

My writing will never be the same as talking to people in person, but feel free to message me if you ever want. I probably won't answer right away--I don't spend a lot of time on DU--but I'll probably answer within 24 hours.

traveler50

(21 posts)
17. Grieve is a journey.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:50 PM
17 hrs ago

As a widow may I express my deepest sympathy. Every day it may hurt a little less but the missing never ends. Praying you find the strength to overcome the pain.

Fla Dem

(27,600 posts)
18. It is difficult to move on. A lttle over a month is pretty fast.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 05:51 PM
17 hrs ago

But hopefully at some point when you think of your husband it will be with love and happiness in your heart as you remember the happy times you had together. Peace be with you.

Trueblue Texan

(4,420 posts)
19. I am so terribly sorry.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:03 PM
16 hrs ago

I cannot imagine what you are going through. I am sending you a warm hug and healing thoughts. Pretty useless I know, but it's all I got. Peace and healing, Ziggysmom.

Tesha

(21,135 posts)
21. I can't even imagine how it feels
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:15 PM
16 hrs ago

But it’s a fear of mine, to lose my husband, so much of us is… us.

I hope you find a connection, somewhere - someone - some space - soon.

cpamomfromtexas

(1,488 posts)
23. I almost completely stopped eating for 3 years
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:16 PM
16 hrs ago

I had to literally teach myself to eat again.

My condolences. Sleep as much as you can. You’ve been through a lot.

Decide you want to live again. And do it!

BigmanPigman

(55,080 posts)
26. Grief is a very personal process
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:21 PM
16 hrs ago

Don't force yourself to "get over it" and anyone who tells you that is clueless. Ignore them!

Everyone grieves in a different way. Sometimes it lasts a lifetime and that is OK. Do not force yourself to "be normal". Do not be hard on yourself either. The process is sort of like "2 steps forward, one step back". Over time it will lessen but it may not seem like it. You will not be functioning normally and you shouldn't be. Don't expect too much from yourself. You'll forget common stuff, you'll be easily distracted, unable to focus, have small accidents, etc. That is normal. Eating, sleeping, everything will be different and this is expected. No matter what you lost (a friendship, a pet, a job, a home, etc) you will be experiencing physical and mental changes. It IS different from depression. Be kind to yourself and do not take on more than you can handle. Perhaps start keeping a journal of what you feel, what you miss, what you enjoy, how you have changed from one hour to the next, .....let it all out, it's good for you!



Grief can last a lifetime and everyone is different. Meryl Streep lost John Cazale in the 1970s and she said she does not want to forget the pain since it is a part of her and her life. She wants to keep the love as well as the pain. It is a part of her.

BonnieJW

(3,120 posts)
29. Its only been about 6 weeks
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:22 PM
16 hrs ago

Give yourself a big break

My husband and I were married for 48 years when he suddenly died at 70. No sickness or medical problems, he was just gone when I came home from work one day. We had known each other since I was 17 and he was 19. He took me to my prom.

Lean on your friends. Accept the hugs and concern from your family, especially your kids. Grieve together. Let your neighbors help you. You will be surprised and moved to find how many people want to be there for you.

yellow dahlia

(5,738 posts)
34. Everything's harder in this environment.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:32 PM
16 hrs ago

Give yourself permission to cut yourself some slack. Take your time processing.

I never like to tell people what to do, or what works for me...but. I find that doing something productive to help others has rewards for my own psyche. But if that doesn't work for you, find whatever does.

I think there is balance to be found. If wallowing for a day or two is cathartic - go with it. Don't chastise yourself.

Do you have friends who listen? Who listen without trying to be the answers?

And most of all - take care of yourself.

calimary

(89,871 posts)
35. Hey Ziggysmom! Once again I realize just how VALUABLE this place is.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:32 PM
16 hrs ago

We’re here for each other, to assert AND protect our rights. And best of all, it’s round-the-clock, with very few exceptions.

Here’s a hug:
(((((((((( * ))))))))))

kimbutgar

(27,206 posts)
38. I'd so sorry for your loss
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:33 PM
16 hrs ago

Big hugs to you.

That said, he is still with you in heart and spirit ! And sometimes when you least expect it he’ll pay you a visit! I believe the body dies but the spirit hangs around and shows up when you least expect it!

Ziggysmom

(4,123 posts)
42. THANK YOU EVERYONE! Everyone will experience grief in their lifetime. It should not be
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:43 PM
16 hrs ago

something we hide or ignore.

Praying for peace and love to you all!

Figarosmom

(11,689 posts)
43. hitthe2b is right, go outside
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:45 PM
16 hrs ago

There are negative ions in the air that will calm you, that's science. Even if it's just to sit on the porch.

Other than that pick up a hobby that will make you get absorbed in something else and take those moments of peace.

HeartsCanHope

(1,658 posts)
44. I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:50 PM
16 hrs ago

Sending you lots of love, and hoping you can get some rest. Will be thinking of you.

niyad

(132,053 posts)
45. Huggggggs, my friend and please be kind and gentle and loving
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:52 PM
16 hrs ago

with yourself. Your loss is barely a month old, the shock has barely had time to register, let alone wear off. It is extremely important to remember that each person grieves in their own way, there is no right or wrong, only what is yours. It is also important to remember that grieving is not a linear process, done stage by stage and done. You can circle and cycle through them at different times. For some reason, the funeral scene in "Steel Magnolias" helps some people.

Please also remember that your DU family is here for you. Lean as hard as you need. There is always someone here.

KitFox

(550 posts)
46. Oh my dear Ziggysmom, My heart hurts for you as you are inching your way through this journey that was suddenly thrust
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:53 PM
16 hrs ago

upon you. How I remember wanting to scream, “ If there is a light at the end of the tunnel, will someone please turn it on!” These first stretches of grief are double whammies taking both physical and mental tolls on your fragile self. Don’t look for something big; just get through the day; get through the night. Don’t hold back on those waves of ugly crying and sobbing. Your body needs that release. Eventually you will be able to expand your boundaries and little by little find your way forward. I lost my dear husband nine years ago and would be more than willing to be your sounding board and support. You can message me anytime. Sending you the gentlest of hugs dear heart. 🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷🩷

Hassler

(4,915 posts)
47. My deepest condolences to you. I share
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 06:54 PM
16 hrs ago

Your grief. My wife died in January. As you grieve, look also for moments of gratitude to help smooth off the rough edges of your grief. 🙏☮️

kairos12

(13,562 posts)
48. I lost my wife of 40 years three years ago.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:04 PM
15 hrs ago

I don't have a lot of advice. A few things that helped me. First, I have to answer the question who am I without her. Still working on that. Second, in terms of how I view her: I don't see her as a past memory, I don't see her as a future, I see her beside me. Everyday. I also look at grief as unexpressed love. I can live with that.

Last, I use the mantra "the only easy day, was yesterday."

I send you peace and strength.

Danmel

(5,766 posts)
49. I'm sorry you are going through this
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:15 PM
15 hrs ago

Sending hugs. Please know your DU family is thinking of you.

marked50

(1,582 posts)
50. I am sorry for what you are gooing through and hope that you find some solace with it all soon.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:19 PM
15 hrs ago

Bayard

(29,510 posts)
51. I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom...
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:26 PM
15 hrs ago

Like with depression, people who tell you to get over it, or move on with your life, are totally clueless. They've obviously never experienced this kind of loss.

Just a few things to think about that helped me when I lost my big brother. He had been my hero, and best friend since I was little. I took back up two things that I used to do, and really enjoyed, but gotten away from. The first was oil painting. I turned out some dark subjects during that time, but it absorbed and calmed me.
The second thing--I started riding again. I came across a woman that boarded a horse right down the road from me, that she didn't have a lot of time for. Free lease. Very, very therapeutic, and I eventually bought my own horse. Animals are the best listeners in the world.
Finally, I started writing down everything I could remember about my brother in a little book. Many smiles through the tears.

What do you enjoy doing? Gardening? Walking? Spring is here. Love cats or dogs? Can you volunteer at a local shelter to do nothing but go in and pet needy, lonely animals. It can be so soothing for you and them.

I still grieve for my brother after 30 years, and now, the rest of my family that are gone. Holidays are pretty tough, and I still get depressed every year. DU is a life saver! I met my best friend, Duppers, on here many years ago. You always have friends here, day or night.

synni

(773 posts)
52. It took me 7 years to feel better
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:28 PM
15 hrs ago

There is no time schedule for grieving. You need to move at your own pace, and try to take good care of yourself.

You mentioned being on medication, but are you in psychotherapy? It was an absolute must for me, as it is for millions of other people. Medication alone isn't enough to help you move forward.

Grieving is a long, slow process that doesn't necessarily move in a straight line. You will start having good days, then suddenly have a bad day that nearly knocks you to the floor. This is normal. It does eventually get better, but it can't be rushed, unfortunately.

Sending you a virtual hug!

MLAA

(19,732 posts)
53. Dear Ziggysmom, here is what helped me when my beloved died in October.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:29 PM
15 hrs ago

I found quiet time, closed my eyes and cleared my thoughts. Then I spoke to my husband and walked him through what I felt guilty about (he suffered from hospital dementia and wanted to get out of the bed at the hospital. It was not safe and I tried to prevent him.). I also was questioning myself about what more I could have done (according to multiple Drs there wasn’t more, but that didn’t assuage my guilt.) After speaking to him aloud and calmly walking him through what occurred during his last 48 hours, still with my eyes closed, I felt all the guilt lift and felt his presence and his love. I continue to talk aloud to him and find it extremely comforting.

Sending you kind thoughts and comfort. DM me if you ever want to.

M

Skittles

(171,465 posts)
55. you're being too hard on yourself
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:29 PM
15 hrs ago

your bereavement is still fresh and you are correct, the constant barrage of bad news from here and around the word does not help

someone is always here on DU, we are here for you

BlueKota

(5,315 posts)
56. I am so sorry.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:32 PM
15 hrs ago

There are on-line support groups, if you think those might help during what's left of the winter.

JMCKUSICK

(5,942 posts)
57. Two of the very best ways to deal with grief for me,
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:33 PM
15 hrs ago

Have been ongoing regular conversations with the deceased, as they were such an important part of my life So I kept them near and dear by including them in my daily acts, and second, is doing very specific things to go or them. Things that they would have garnered great joy from or that we used to do together.

I talk to them to this day and it helps me get through those moments without trying to avoid them.

Were you being treated for those things prior to his death?

I know this may be somewhat controversial, but the last thing I wanted during the very worst of my pain and loss was medication. As deep as the loss is and as painful as it is to be in the midst of it, I also trust that I'm feeling everything that's normal in this moment and I've slowly and gradually gotten through parts of it by giving myself permission to be exactly where I am.

Those of us that have taken this journey, or are in the midst of it understand, empathize and share your loss.

I still say thank you often for those gifts I'm blessed enough to carry forward from them.

Trust. You.

Moostache

(11,157 posts)
58. This community is here for you.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 07:42 PM
15 hrs ago

My condolences on your loss, we all grieve in a manner that our bodies and souls dictate to us and there's never a "right" or "wrong" way to process it all (unless you are not getting the support you need).

I know that I was uplifted by the many messages or condolence and support I received here last week upon my father's passing.

GreatGazoo

(4,594 posts)
60. {{ Hugs }} EKR's books helped me understand the physical component of grief
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:19 PM
14 hrs ago

"On Grief and Grieving" and "On Death and Dying" helped me understand some of the hidden dynamics of grief. A big part of grief is biological -- like puberty: you can't stop it but you can understand it. For me, grief could lift and then come back as quickly and unexpected as a sneeze. It's been years and it still does that once in a while.

My heart goes out to you. Hope you will take extra care of yourself.

highplainsdem

(61,822 posts)
61. I'm so sorry, Ziggysmom.
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 08:20 PM
14 hrs ago

We're here for you, and others have already offered some of the advice I would have. I'd especially recommend grief support groups, whether online or off, whichever you feel more comfortable with. They helped me through a year when I lost four loved ones.

The guilt you feel mixed with grief is something I believe is common for caregivers. Even if you did everything possible, and if everyone who knew the situation told you that you did everything possible, there's a tendency to feel that maybe you could have done something more. I searched for your older messages about the caregiving, and I believe you gave your husband the best possible care, and kept him at home as long as possible. You have no real reason to feel guilty, but you loved him and you couldn't keep him healthy forever, and the guilt is from not having been able to work a miracle to make him healthy again.

I have no idea what your beliefs about an afterlife might be. I'm not religious - left the Catholic Church I was raised in when I was a teenager, have never been tempted to follow any other religion. But one thing I found very comforting with grief support groups was hearing personal stories of experiences people there had had, experiences that convinced them our loved ones are still very much alive on the other side. That we all have reunions to look forward to.

There's a relaxation technique, originally developed to help with PTSD, that might help you sleep. I've used it for that sometimes. To me it feels like instant meditation.

malaise

(295,613 posts)
62. That's not that long
Thu Mar 19, 2026, 09:21 PM
13 hrs ago

You lost part of your life.
Now serious question - are you able to exercise?

SleeplessinSoCal

(10,409 posts)
64. lost my hubby almost two years ago.
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 05:33 AM
5 hrs ago

Juat thinking is hard.

I console my self with the knowledge he's not here to suffer through our national night.

❤️

rampartd

(4,565 posts)
65. it is only a month. give it time.
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 07:37 AM
3 hrs ago

get rid of as much stuff as you can bear,, and get out of the house.

by the way, episodes of grief and guilt haunt all of us who have lost loved ones, which is everyone.

mnhtnbb

(33,326 posts)
66. Last night I was watching a documentary about Jane Austen
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 07:53 AM
3 hrs ago

On BritBox. I was reminded that women of immediate family members who died would observe a year of official mourning, wearing black, to observe and by their dress, let others know of their loss.

Whatever we may think about customs and treatment of women in the 19th Century, there is something to be said for the recognition of the process of grief. Granted there were those who moved past their grief very quickly and were constrained by the societal expectation, but I think it's worth noting that Society offered the norm of a year to grieve openly.

Give yourself some time. There are lots of excellent suggestions in this thread about being gentle with yourself and taking time to adjust to life as it is now without your husband.

Hugs, my friend.

JoseBalow

(9,440 posts)
67. I hope you find some peace and comfort
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 07:55 AM
3 hrs ago

It helps to talk about it, and time will also help soothe the pain. I am sorry for what you're going through. I wish you all the best.

EuterpeThelo

(324 posts)
68. Oh, Ziggysmom
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 08:53 AM
2 hrs ago

I am so, so, so sorry for your pain and empathize so very much. Widowed nearly six years here and every day I simply can't believe I'm having to live through times like these without him.

It's easy to say "be gentle with yourself" to someone and much harder to act upon that advice, especially when you have NO idea what normal even is anymore. Truth? Tere are just no words for what you're going through and I can't pretend there are, but please know that your DU family is holding you close.

Marthe48

(23,104 posts)
72. My husband died in 2017
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 09:32 AM
1 hr ago

I don't know if I got through my grief, or just live with it. I read your post when you made the decision to get the help for your husband that he needed. Admitting him to a care facility was a hard choice for you, but from what you described, it was the best choice. And his stay didn't go the way you thought it would. If you'd tried to help him at home, and things had gone the same way, would you feel the same guilt?

I often relive the life choices I made, all the way back to my childhood, and I second guess myself any time I think about my life. But here I am. My husband and I didn't live the ifs, and I'll never know whether the alternatives would make our reality different or better.

I hear many people talk about loneliness, but I don't think I get lonely. I don't take my loved ones for granted. They stay in touch, and maybe if they didn't, I'd notice that I'm alone.

People in general are getting used to the idea of instant gratification. Get it now. Give everything a timetable. Grief and loss don't work like that. They have their own schedule, and each of us endure it as we can. How long were you married? A relative, married almost 60 years, lost his wife last month. He said he couldn't believe she was gone. I said that after a lifetime, you can't just move past it.

Long ago, I read that deep grief, such as you describe, physically lasts about 6 months. If your physical symptoms last longer than that, you should seek help. This isn't to say your heart heals, or the memories bring more sadness than joy, but pay attention to what your body is doing.

Give yourself time. Lay down. Even if you don't sleep, you are resting. Keep food and drinks in your house that you like. Take a shower or a bath. Go outside. Even if you don't walk, just get some fresh air. Be nice to yourself.

Sending lifting thoughts.

TexLaProgressive

(12,723 posts)
73. My wife died 9/17/25
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 09:59 AM
57 min ago

I know the feeling of guilt. She had several small strokes (not TIAs) and I didn’t recognized them. She would mumble and then back to normal. It wasn’t until she lost control of her right side that I realized what was happening.

I feel for you and hope that your guilt and depression will lift. The feeling of guilt may not completely lift but ease. I had at least mild clinical depression that just got better a month ago. I wasn’t aware of it until it was better.

spinbaby

(15,385 posts)
76. It will get better
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 10:14 AM
42 min ago

My husband is gone ten years now and I still remember the shock and grief of those first months. You never really get over it, but you do kind of get used to it. Cling tight to friends and family.

marble falls

(71,780 posts)
77. I am so sorry to hear of your loss, and I am concerned over your struggle dealing with that loss. ...
Fri Mar 20, 2026, 10:47 AM
8 min ago

... all I can offer is my thought that you are putting up a great effort to stay ahead of it. I pray for your strength to hold up.

G*D bless you and keep you.

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