20 | Living with the Hidden Grief of Mid-Life Relationship Trauma w/ Melissa Issa

Please Note: This episode contains discussions of domestic violence, relationship trauma, and complex grief. Our conversation is meant for educational and empowering purposes, but we understand these topics can be heavy. Please protect your peace and prioritize your well-being as you listen.In this episode of The Living Loss Podcast, host Daiana Bernard sits down with advocate Melissa Issa to expose the hidden grief of navigating relationship trauma and domestic violence in mid-life.Rebuilding your life after an abusive or toxic relationship looks different in your 30s, 40s, or 50s. Together, they unpack the unique, quiet shame of starting over later in life and the heavy feeling that you "should have known better." Melissa shares her powerful story of hitting rock bottom, shedding her survival self, and proving that circumstances don't check your age before they change.Whether you are healing from intimate partner violence or reclaiming an identity you thought was lost, this episode offers a raw, trauma-informed roadmap to resilience, self-love, and empowerment in your next chapter.Connect With Us:Melissa Issa: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissaissatampa Break The Silence Against Domestic Violence - https://breakthesilencedv.org/Join the Community: We’re building a space where every loss is seen. Have a 'Living Loss Lesson' or a topic you’d like us to explore? Email us your story. If you have an experience you’d like us to share on the air, let us know, we are always happy to share your stories anonymously to keep this a safe space for our community.Instagram: @thelivinglosspodcast Email: [email protected] the Show: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, follow, share and leave a review. It helps us reach others who need to hear that their grief is valid.If you’re interested in a consultation for individual therapy with Daiana Bernard, please reach out via email or visit the practice website below.Email: [email protected] Website: MeaningfulTherapyFL.com Location: Riverview, FL, In-Person, and Telehealth serving clients throughout Florida.If you’re interested in a consultation with Cassandra Harris-Towner please reach out via email or visit the practice website below.Email: [email protected] Website: firststridezcounseling.com Location: Ocala, FL, In-Person, and Telehealth serving clients throughout Florida.Disclaimer: While we are Licensed Mental Health Counselors, listening to this podcast or reaching out for a consultation does not replace professional therapy or establish a therapist-client relationship. This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please call or text 988 or head to your nearest emergency room.