Healthy ageing comes along with many changes. While Wellington Estates is all about adapting to change, some changes are easier to deal with than others. A particular difficulty is facing loss, whether it’s loss of ability, a loved one or anything else, loss can be devastating. As such, you may have a hard time facing your parent’s difficult emotions around the areas of loss.
When your Parent Expresses Difficult Emotions, Listen
It can be tempting to try and make your parent happy and not allow them to fully talk about what their feeling. But this can be a big mistake. We get past difficult emotions by processing them, not by avoiding them.
Of course, ruminating about things that upset us makes us feel worse, but talking about a loss can be a process of integration. The key is not to try and make your parent feel better but to give them a listening and compassionate ear.
Dr. Dan Siegel, a prominent neuroscientist, coined the term “feeling felt.” We have a real need to feel felt by another human being. And as a child you may be in the best position to provide that service to your parent.
Professional counseling may be necessary as well but you still play a major role in helping your parent integrate their experiences.
How have you dealt with your parent’s difficult emotions?
Please share in the comments below.
Disclaimer, or Use at Your Own Risk
Wellington Estates does not take any responsibility for this posts content. Therefore, any action you take based its information is strictly at your own risk. You should always speak to your doctor regarding medical information and your health.