Anticipatory Grief: How to Cope Before the Loss

In this episode of Lighting the Path, grief and bereavement specialist Dawn Delaloye, PhD, shares the story of how she was drawn into walking alongside people in seasons of deep loss. She gently introduces the idea of anticipatory grief—the kind of grief that shows up before a death or major loss—and talks about when it can surface for patients, caregivers, and families who know that change is coming. Dawn names some of the common signs of anticipatory grief, like feeling on edge, tearful, exhausted, distracted, or "not like yourself," and reassures listeners that these are normal responses, not personal failures. From there, Dawn talks about how grieving before a loss feels different from grieving after a death, especially when you are still caregiving, making big decisions, and trying to hold on to small, meaningful moments at the same time. She offers kind, practical suggestions for how caregivers and family members can navigate this season—putting words to their emotions, making space for rest, creating memories with their loved one, and reaching out for support instead of trying to be "the strong one" all the time. The conversation closes with a list of resources and places to find help, so no one has to walk through anticipatory grief alone. To learn more about Dawn, visit her website at Sunrise Coaching.   Connect with Harbor Hospice & Beacon Hospice: Follow Harbor Hospice on Facebook. Follow Beacon Hospice on Facebook. For more information about Harbor Hospice, please visit harborhospice.com For more information about Beacon Hospice, please visit beacon.life For more information about HarborCare & BeaconCare Palliative Services, please visit myharborcare.com Please send your questions or comments to the podcast host at [email protected].