When Tragedy Strikes: The Impact of Grief on Relationships

Dear Courageous One,

The topic of tragedy has risen to the surface of my attention this week. I received heavy news this past Monday about a close family member whose life has come to a tragic end. Unanswered questions. Missing pieces. Nothing makes sense. 

But I know that I’m not alone in my experience. I’ve heard of others facing major loss or challenges this week as well. It really got me thinking about how we handle these situations in our relationships.

Does grief and loss bring you closer to your loved ones? Do you push people away? Do you find the silver lining? Reminisce on the good times? 

In my family, I was raised to come together and support one another. To reminisce on the good times and find peace that they are in a better place. But in the past, in my marriage, when I was stressed and overwhelmed by life’s circumstances, it would often end up coming out sideways in my marriage. 

My husband, Denver, was an easy target. My minor pet peeves turned into major annoyances! And out came the frustration, anger, and irritation. 

Rather than coming together, it seemed like we were repelled apart. And this was the time we needed one another the most. 

Can you relate to your marriage suffering from the fallout of your stress, anxiety, overwhelm, or even grief? If not, then I’m so happy for you that you’re able to lean in and love one another more when times like these show up. 

But if you answered yes, please know that you’re not alone. That we once too were in that place where as much as we wanted to comfort each other, we ended up using one another as emotional punching bags to let out our sadness disguised as anger. 

As we enter into another weekend, I encourage you to take some time to think about how loss and grief impacts your relationships and more specifically your marriage? And what ways would you love to improve the ways you support one another through tough times?

Until next time, keep questioning, keep challenging, and above all, keep loving fiercely.

Yours Truly,

Your Marriage Mindshift Coach