4 Steps To Take When Navigating Abortion Loss and Grief
by Lisa Burns
Abortion loss is a deeply personal and emotional topic. This can be a challenging subject to navigate for individuals and their families who have experienced this loss. It is essential for us to approach those experiencing abortion grief with empathy and compassion. Individuals who have experienced an abortion may have various emotions and feelings. Some individuals may feel a deep sense of loss and sadness, while others may feel detached, numb, or indifferent. It is essential for friends and family of those experiencing abortion grief and loss to validate and respect those diverse experiences rather than trying to impose a particular narrative or expectation on the individual.
Abortion loss and grief can manifest in various ways, and finding healthy ways to cope and heal is essential. Here are four ways to help you through the process.
Connect with a support group: Joining a support group for individuals who have experienced abortion loss can provide a sense of community and validation, as well as practical advice and resources for healing. Passages of Hope provides online and in-person support services to accommodate busy schedules. Participating in a support group can be an incredibly time-efficient way for us to connect with others who understand our struggles.
Consider creative outlets: Engaging in creative activities, such as writing, painting, or music, can be a powerful way to express and process emotions related to abortion, loss, and grief. Passages of Hope groups incorporate a wide range of tools and actionable steps that facilitate the healthy expression of grief and loss.
Engage in self-care practices: Taking care of one's physical and emotional well-being can help alleviate stress and sadness. Examples of self-care practices include exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature.
Seek professional counseling: A trained counselor can provide a safe and confidential space to process and cope with the emotional and psychological effects of abortion loss and grief. We understand that not everyone is ready for a group. At Passages of Hope, we seek to provide individual counseling services, when needed, to support our groups.
It's important to remember that everyone's healing journey is unique, and there is no singular "right" way to cope with abortion loss and grief. These suggestions are meant to provide guidance and ideas for beginning the healing process. It's also essential to seek professional help, and to be kind and gentle with oneself throughout the journey. Remember that healing takes time, and it's okay to take the time necessary to process and cope with this loss.