• Anniversaries of a loved one's death can reactivate intense grief reactions like intrusive thoughts, yearning, anger, anxiety and depression

• Iris launched her "Grieving Well" podcast on the 1st anniversary of her husband David's passing

• The day was excruciatingly painful despite efforts to do self-care activities like a massage, beach visit, lunch

• A text from David's best friend unleashed a wave of emotions as the shared grief struck her

• Her children and other loved ones intentionally offered love and support in tangible ways.

Key Takeaways:

• There is no right or wrong way to experience an anniversary of loss

• Allow yourself to feel whatever arises - sadness, anger, anxiety, relief after the day

• Plan ahead - take off work, visit meaningful places, write a letter, look at photos

• Lean on your support system

• Don't judge your emotions - grief is unpredictable

• Practice self-compassion

• Grief is "love with no place to go" after loss (quote from Robin Roberts’ Interview with Regina King)

• “Grief is a receipt.. . .It shows you loved someone deeply” (quote from Think You’ll Be Happy: Moving Through Grief with Grit, Grace, and Gratitude by Nicole Avant)

Suggestions:

• Feel the grief but also feel grateful for the love you shared

• Remembrance keeps the memory alive in a meaningful way 

• Find a support group or grief-informed therapist if needed

• Have compassion for yourself through this challenging journey

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