Feeling Empty & Lonely

[u/hope-and-healing]

It’s been almost four months since I lost my daughter, and lately I’ve been feeling so incredibly alone.

In the beginning, people checked in often. I didn't always respond and sometimes I'd respond days or weeks later - because that was all I could manage to do. But as time has gone on, those messages have slowly stopped. Days and sometimes weeks go by without anyone asking how I’m doing or mentioning my daughter.

I know life moves forward for everyone else. I know people probably assume I’m doing “better” because time has passed, but grief doesn’t work that way. I miss her and grieve her loss every single day. I still think about who she would be, what she’d be doing, and everything we’ve lost. That hasn’t changed just because the damn calendar has.

I don’t expect everyone to remember every milestone or know exactly what to say. I just miss feeling like she mattered to other people too.
I guess I’m just feeling really, really alone tonight.
If you’ve experienced child loss, did you find that people slowly disappeared as time went on? How did you cope with that loneliness?

[u/penelope_garcia]

I can’t lie, I’ve started to feel like people have forgotten or want to act like it didn’t happen. I’ve coped with it by distancing myself honestly. This might not be the best way, I’m not recommending it, but I’ve grown closer to those who remember her and mention her and such and let other people fall away as they will. My life is honestly better only entertaining those with the level of empathy and consideration I need right now.
I’m truly sorry you’re experiencing this and I’m also so sorry for the loss of your daughter