Daughters' Loss of Mother Has Profound, Lasting Impact
A recent study reveals that the loss of a mother can have more profound and lasting negative effects on daughters than on sons. The impact can be overwhelming, regardless of the age at which it occurs or the nature of their relationship.
The initial grief can be severe, with moments of sorrow persisting even as time passes. Women who experience this loss are more likely to turn to binge drinking as a coping mechanism. They also often face a greater decline in self-esteem and a lower sense of personal mastery.
A 2015 study found that women have a more intense grief response and struggle more to adjust to the loss of a parent. The most common long-term effects, as recorded in studies, include emotional exhaustion, loss of joy and interest in life, decreased self-esteem, social withdrawal, and changes in self-perception. These psychosocial consequences can lead to persistent fatigue, depressive moods, and increased vulnerability to anxiety, severely affecting social and occupational functioning.
Support is crucial for those who have lost their mothers. The grief can occur in stages with immediate symptoms, whether the loss is sudden or the result of a long decline in health. It's important to remember that grief is a natural response and that seeking help is a sign of strength.
