Grief & Loss

Thoughtful articles on grief, bereavement, loss, and emotional adjustment after significant life changes. Support for navigating sadness, numbness, anticipatory grief, and the complex realities of loss and healing.

Colourful mural depicting country music icon Dolly Parton.

Dolly Parton, Celebrity Grief and Why We Mourn People We Never Knew

The death of a famous person can affect us far more deeply than we expect. Following the death of Dolly Parton, I explore why people can genuinely grieve someone they never met, how public loss can reconnect us with our own memories and why those feelings should not be dismissed.

Grief & Loss

Paul Madden

Aug 269 min read

Two women sitting closely together on a sofa, comforting each other during a moment of grief. One woman gently holds the other as they share an emotional and supportive moment in a calm home setting.

Living Through the Year of Firsts After Loss: Grief, Anniversaries and Healing

The first year after losing someone can bring painful reminders, anniversaries and emotional milestones. This article explores grief, bereavement and gentle ways to navigate the “year of firsts” after loss.

Grief & Loss

Paul Madden

Aug 163 min read

Black-and-white portrait of Irish musician Glen Hansard, captured in a reflective moment, symbolising remembrance, public grief, and the enduring impact of his music and legacy.

Public Grieving for Famous People: What Glen Hansard's Farewell Teaches Us About Loss

Black-and-white portrait of Irish musician Glen Hansard, captured in a reflective moment, symbolising remembrance, public grief, and the enduring impact of his music and legacy.

Grief & Loss

Paul Madden

Aug 43 min read

Close-up of a dog’s paw resting in a woman’s hand wearing a small paw-shaped ring, representing love, companionship, emotional connection, grief, and the bond between pets and their owners.

Grief After Losing a Pet: Why Pet Bereavement Hurts So Deeply

Losing a pet can feel devastating. This article explores why grief after losing a pet is real, valid, and often deeply connected to love, attachment, and daily life.

Grief & Loss

Paul Madden

May 14 min read