Five Ways to Cope With Loss When Our Superhero Dies

Note: This episode is from an article that I wrote and was originally published in the Huffington Post on May 12, 2015. Superheroes have a special place in my heart. I grew up fascinated by Stan Lee @TheRealStanLee and his creations in the Marvel comic world. There’s just something about the message of hope and goodwill that superheroes convey that’s so appealing to me. We all have superheroes. I’m not referring to Ironman, Superman, Spiderman, or Wonder Woman. I’m referring to people in our lives whom we look up to, who mean the world to us. The grandparent who always made you laugh, the aunt or uncle who always made time to sit with you and just talk about life, the best friend who was always there, the parent who always made you feel better. We all have superheroes who make a big impact on our lives. I have had many superheroes in my life. My grandpa taught me how to fish, one of my closest friends in college who always shared a laugh, and of course, my dog. Hey, dogs can be superheroes, too, you know. Remember Underdog? But what happens when our superhero dies? My grandpa passed when I was a young teenager, my dog died shortly after, and my best friend in college died tragically in a car accident a year before I graduated. There’s no secret formula, no magic potion, and no hidden message that will bring your superhero back. This is real life, not a movie. The agonizing pain and profound loss are so great and so overwhelming that it completely rocks our world. So, how can we cope when our superhero dies? It’s never easy, but here are five steps that can help you cope with your profound loss. This list is not to be confused with or replace of the five stages of grief coined by Elisabeth Kugler-Ross in her popular book, On Death and Dying. Learn more about John at www.johncordray.comSmells Like Humans Like listening to funny friends discuss curious human behavior.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the showRate the show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider providing an honest rating of the show here www.mentalhealthtodayshow.com/reviews/new .Disclaimer: The Mental Health Today Show is for educational purposes only and should not be interpreted as therapy. If you are seeking therapy, please contact a licensed therapist for help.Ready for weekly tips to quiet overthinking and reclaim mental freedom? Subscribe to The Mental Freedom newsletter, actionable insights delivered for high achievers and overthinkers. Sign up here: https://johncordray.me/subscribe From John Cordray, LPC – Creator of MyndStill app @JohnCordrayLPC on X/LinkedIn Informational support only—not a substitute for professional therapy.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy