In this episode of The Grief Lounge, Sadie returns to share her unfiltered reflections on surviving the first year after losing her person. This is not a polished, feel-good story, but an honest, raw account of what it really feels like to navigate the hardest days of grief. Sadie opens up about the things that helped her move forward and the well-meaning advice that didn’t—offering a perspective that will resonate with anyone who feels lost in their grief.

Sadie talks about the emotional weight of keeping her partner's memory alive for her children, how difficult it is to face anniversaries and milestones, and the struggle to protect your energy when everyone has an opinion on how you should grieve. She shares the realities of grief no one talks about—the exhaustion, the inconsistency, the need for boundaries, and how hard it can be to let others in when you’re just trying to get through the day.

If you’re grieving, or trying to support someone who is, this episode will help you feel seen. Sadie speaks directly to the heart of anyone feeling isolated and overwhelmed, offering hope that while the pain doesn’t disappear, there are ways to take small, meaningful steps forward. In her vulnerability, she creates a space for others to feel understood and held, showing that grief is not something to fix but to navigate—one day at a time.

keywordsgrief, loss, support, healing, memories, consistency, boundaries, community, spirituality, self-careSound Bites

• "This year has been the most difficult year of my life."
• "Consistency is really key."
• "I want to keep his memory alive for the kids."

Chapters

00:00Reflections on Grief and Loss

05:30Keeping Memories Alive: Talking About the Deceased

11:06Significant Dates and Their Impact

16:47Support from Strangers and Community

21:51Spirituality and Self-Responsibility in Grief

24:22Finding Focus and Purpose in Grief

39:24Lessons Learned from Grief

Find Me. www.thrgriefcoachuk.com

@the_grief_coach_uk. Instagram

In this heartfelt episode of The Grief Lounge, Sadie shares her deeply personal experience with grief and the ongoing challenges of navigating her grief season. Reflecting on the first anniversary of her husband's death, she discusses the traumatic events of the past few years that continue to impact her and her children. Sadie talks about the concept of intentional grieving, highlighting the importance of actively engaging with the pain rather than avoiding it. She explains how writing and journalling have been cathartic tools in her healing journey, allowing her to express and process her emotions. Music and memories of loved ones have also played a significant role in providing comfort and connection. Sadie addresses the societal pressure to move on quickly from grief and emphasises the necessity of creating space for one's pain and seeking support from understanding communities. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing takes time and that embracing grief can lead to profound personal growth.

Keywords: grief, grief season, trauma, intentional grieving, writing, music, pain, healing, support, community

You can find me on my website www.thegriefcoachuk.com

On Instagram @thegriefcoach_uk

or in the Facebook community https://www.facebook.com/groups/thegrieflounge/

Thank you for listening.

Sadie x

In this episode of The Grief Lounge, I sit down with Rachel Hart, who shares her powerful story of navigating immense loss and finding love again. Rachel opens up about losing her father, mother, and husband at a young age, including the heartbreaking experience of her husband's death by suicide. We discuss the emotional challenges that followed, the weight of being labeled as 'strong', and the conflicting feelings when a parent remarries. Rachel emphasises the importance of allowing oneself to grieve, seeking support, and understanding that even in the darkest times, things can change. She also delves into her journey with spirituality, her belief in signs and synchronicities, and the bittersweet experience of starting a family without her parents. Join us as Rachel talks about finding love again, the importance of recording memories, and the need to consistently show up for those who are grieving. This heartfelt conversation is filled with insights, hope, and the reassurance that growth and happiness are possible after profound loss.

You can connect with Rachel at @lovelossdiscoballs

Here are some links that Rachel would like to share to help anyone who needs support

https://uksobs.com/ (Survivors of bereavement by suicide)

https://www.thecalmzone.net/ (Campaign against living miserably)

If you would like to connect with others who are also grieving the loss of their person please come and join us at @thegrieflounge on facebook

you can find me on instagram here @thegriefcoach_uk

If you would like to work with me you can go to my website for more information www.thegriefcoachuk.com