Skip to content

Study: Loss of Mother Can Have Lasting Impact on Young Adults, Especially Women

Losing a mother can be devastating for young adults, especially women. The grief can last a lifetime and affect both mental and physical health.

In this image there is a kid crying, behind the kid there are trees, wooden sticks and houses.
In this image there is a kid crying, behind the kid there are trees, wooden sticks and houses.

Study: Loss of Mother Can Have Lasting Impact on Young Adults, Especially Women

A recent study has revealed that the loss of a mother can have profound and lasting effects on young adults, particularly women. The research, conducted in 2021, found a strong link between this traumatic event and depression, as well as a compromised sense of self. Furthermore, it was discovered that women often experience a more intense grief response and struggle more with adjustment.

The loss of a mother can occur suddenly or after a prolonged period of declining health. A study from 2015 highlighted the stark difference in how men and women cope with this loss. Women tend to experience more severe emotional burdens and loneliness, with a stronger decline in self-esteem and personal mastery. This is further supported by a more recent study suggesting that daughters are more negatively affected than sons by the death of their mother.

The impact of such a loss is not limited to mental health. Research has shown that it can also lead to various physical health issues, including increased chances of cancer, cardiac problems, immune disorders, and high blood pressure. Beyond these clinical symptoms, the loss of a mother can mean feeling like a crucial part of one's support system is gone, along with family traditions and cultural knowledge.

The grief following the loss of a mother can manifest in a variety of emotions, including regret, remorse, anxiety, guilt, emptiness, rage, anger, sadness, and numbness. These feelings may occur in stages and can persist for an extended period. It is crucial for individuals, especially women, to seek support and understanding as they navigate through this challenging time of the stages of grief.

Read also:

Latest