When Grief is New: The First Year

In this episode, I explore the often overwhelming experience of the first year after losing a loved one. When grief is fresh, it can feel like you're simply muddling through, unsure of what’s normal or how to move forward. I begin by sharing an excerpt from my grief memoir, reflecting on the emotions and challenges of that first year. From navigating milestones and daily responsibilities to understanding how grief shows up in unexpected ways, I walk through what many experience in those early months. Finally, I close with a discussion on self-care—what helped me, and what might support you or someone you love in the tender space of new grief.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:🖋️A Personal Reflection – An excerpt from my grief memoir, offering awindow into my journey.📅The “Firsts” After Loss – How major milestones and small daily moments shift after losing someone.💡The Day-to-Day Realities of Grief – Balancing emotions with thepractical aspects of life that don’t pause for grief.🌿How Grief Shows Up – The unexpected ways grief manifests physically, mentally, and emotionally.💖Self-Care in the First Year – Ways to support yourself through fresh loss, from practical strategies to emotional nourishment.Resources & Links:This podcast is listener supported.  I’d love to hear from you—connect with me!Substack: https://thegriefcurator.substack.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheGriefCuratorIG: https://www.instagram.com/thegriefcurator/ Website: https://thegriefcurator.com/Music Intro and Outro: Eulogy | Licensed and Used with Permission of Thrumm, a division of Junius Recording Company.Podcast DisclaimerMichelle is not a licensed therapist.  This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. If at any moment in today’s discussion, you feel triggered, or not ready to face these big feelings, take a break, drink some water or tea, and come back to the podcast when you are ready. If you do find that your everyday tasks are becoming impossible, or if you find you’re having suicidal thoughts, please call 988 or your local emergency number, and reach out to your therapist.