A Guide to After Life

Dr Monika Wieliczko
A Guide to After Life

A Guide to After Life is your go-to podcast for the young and widowed. This is your weekly space to help you live through grief.

  1. Season 2, Episode 6: The Grieving Body with Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing

    4 DAYS AGO

    Season 2, Episode 6: The Grieving Body with Mary-Frances O'Connor, PhD: How the Stress of Loss Can Be an Opportunity for Healing

    Have you ever wondered what goes on in our bodies when we are grieving a loved one? In our latest episode of Guide to After Life, I sat down with Mary Frances O'Connor, PhD, a leading expert in grief research, to explore the fascinating connection between our minds and bodies during the grieving process. Here's a glimpse of what you'll learn: • How our bodies physically respond to loss and signs to look out for that can save your life • The surprising link between grief and inflammation• Why some people find it harder to adjust after bereavement• Practical tips for supporting your body through grief Dr. O'Connor shares insights from her new book, "The Grieving Body," and offers a compassionate perspective on how the stress of loss can become an opportunity for healing. The book will be published on 27th February 2025 in the UK and 11th February in the USA.  Whether you're navigating your own grief journey or supporting someone who is, this conversation will shed light on the often-overlooked physical aspects of bereavement. Useful Links: Buy The Grieving Body book Learn more about how your body and mind respond to loss by taking part in the Grief MOT.  Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief.  - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Join a free Facebook Group - Find out more about grief support   Guest BIO: About Mary-Frances Mary-Frances O'Connor is a Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychiatry at the University of Arizona. Her research focuses on the physiological correlates of emotion, in particular the wide range of physical and emotional responses during bereavement, including yearning and isolation. She believes that a clinical science approach toward the experience and mechanisms of grieving can improve interventions for prolonged grief disorder, newly included in the revised DSM-5. Connect with Mary-Frances O'Connor  - Instagram - LinkedIn  https://maryfrancesoconnor.org/ Connect with Dr Monika Wieliczko - Facebook - Instagram - LinkedIn

    1h 2m
  2. Season 2, Episode 5: Breaking Barriers: The Power of Text-Based Grief Support with Dr. Melissa Lunardini, Chief Clinical Officer at Help Texts.

    FEB 18

    Season 2, Episode 5: Breaking Barriers: The Power of Text-Based Grief Support with Dr. Melissa Lunardini, Chief Clinical Officer at Help Texts.

    Have you been struggling to access free grief support or would like to support someone who is going through a bereavement? This episode might be for you. Let’s explore alternative ways of learning about grief and moving beyond traditional counselling and therapy. I had the pleasure of talking to Dr. Melissa Lunardini, Chief Clinical Officer at Help Texts, a text-based grief support platform. We discuss the benefits of this unique approach, its impact on the grieving process, and how technology can bridge the gap in grief education and support. If you are currently living in the UK, do not miss out on taking part in this free programme before it runs out. Scroll down to access the link below. Key Insights & Timestamps: • 00:00:49 Introduction to alternative grief support methods, focusing on text-based support. • 00:02:12 Dr. Lunardini shares her background in grief work & the genesis of Help Texts. It originated from a personal loss and a desire to create accessible support. • 00:05:03 Discussion on the limitations of traditional grief support and how text messaging offers a more accessible, low-burden approach. • 00:10:48 Exploration of the science behind text-based support. Dr. Lunardini explains how text messages engage the brain's dopamine loop, leading to increased motivation & a sense of being cared for. • 00:17:02 How Help Texts creates personalised messages based on user input and the expertise of grief specialists, ensuring relevant support tailored to individual experiences. • 00:22:11 How the platform addresses significant dates and holidays, prompting supporters to reach out and lessening the burden of remembering for both grievers and their networks. • 00:24:32 Reflection on the importance of shared grief experiences and how Help Texts facilitates connection and remembrance. • 00:32:01 The critical role of reliable information in grief support, and Help Texts' commitment to curating content from vetted experts. • 00:46:35 Acknowledging the cognitive challenges of grieving and how bite-sized text messages are more digestible than traditional educational materials. • 00:51:03 Discussion of common obstacles to accessing grief support, and how innovative approaches like Help Texts can break down these barriers. Notable Quotes: • "I too, I think was initially skeptical… we’ve only ever been taught that there's this traditional path for bereavement support." - Dr. Melissa Lunardini • "Until I saw your text, I thought I was losing my mind… thank you for making me realise that this is just a normal part." - Help Texts user • "It's like the lights are on, but nobody's home." - Dr. Melissa Lunardini, describing the early weeks of grief. Resources & Links:  https://sueryder.grief.coach/ - free personalised grief coaching programme via text for anyone living in the UK. https://helptexts.com/ Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief: https://www.guidetoafterlife.com/podcast-signup - Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Find out more about grief support   Guest’s BIO: Bio:  Melissa Lunardini, Ph.D., MBA, MA, FT, has 20 years of experience in grief, loss, and trauma with specialisations in childhood bereavement, theory, grief technology, and trauma. She has developed innovative programs and interventions across various industries including healthcare, education, and non-profit. As Chief Clinical Officer at Help Texts, Dr. Lunardini oversees the delivery of global mental health and grief support via text message. She ensures all content is rooted in evidence-based practices, manages the subscriber support team, and leads research initiatives. A Fellow in Thanatology, Dr. Lunardini is a sought-after presenter and researcher. Her work on text-based grief support has been published in preeminent journals and presented at international conferences. Your Host’s BIO: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook  Instagram   Linked In

    55 min
  3. Season 2, Ep.4. Dating After Loss: How to Find your Chapter 2 with Nicky Wake

    FEB 11

    Season 2, Ep.4. Dating After Loss: How to Find your Chapter 2 with Nicky Wake

    Navigating Dating After Loss  Episode Overview: As we are approaching Valentine's Day and are just about to watch Bridget Jone's new film on dating as a widow and a single mum, my mind was preoccupied with preparing an episode addressing the complexities of modern dating after losing a life partner. In this episode, we are exploring the conflicting emotions that arise when grief and the prospect of new relationships collide. Joining me is Nicky Wake, founder of Chapter Two, a dating platform designed specifically for widows and widowers. Nicky shares her personal journey of loss and how it inspired her to create this unique space for others navigating similar experiences. We discuss the challenges of re-entering the dating world, societal expectations surrounding widowhood, the importance of finding a supportive community, and practical tips for dating safely and thoughtfully. Key Insights:  There's no right time to start dating again. Each individual's grief journey is unique, and there's no set timeline for when it's appropriate to consider dating. Listen to your own intuition and don't let societal pressures dictate your decisions. Dating after loss is a complex experience. It's normal to feel a mix of excitement, guilt, and apprehension. Be prepared for emotional ups and downs, and allow yourself grace and patience as you navigate this new terrain. Transparency and communication are key. Be open and honest with yourself about your needs and expectations. Communicate clearly with potential partners about your grief journey and what you're looking for in a relationship. Finding a supportive community is essential. Connect with other widows and widowers who understand your experience. Sharing your struggles and triumphs with others can provide invaluable support and validation. Safety is paramount. Take precautions when dating online, such as meeting in public places, keeping communication on the platform, and avoiding sharing personal or financial information too soon. Notable Quotes:  "Dating after loss can give you hope that your story isn't over. There is another chapter quite literally and figuratively, your second chapter." - Nicky Wake [00:11:19] "As widows, we don't move on. We move forward." - Nicky Wake [00:23:48] "It takes a really big person, man or woman, to deal with that vulnerability and to respect it." - Nicky Wake [00:22:45] Timestamps:  [00:02:59]: Nicky shares her personal story of loss and the creation of Chapter Two. [00:19:37]: Discussion on when is the "right time" to start dating again. [00:23:11]: Breaking the taboo of dating after loss. [00:33:47]: Discussion of the Chapter Two member survey and its findings. [00:43:03]: Practical safety tips for dating. Resources & Links:  Chapter Two Dating App: https://www.chapter2dating.app/ Widows Fire: https://widowsfire.dating/ Survey results: https://www.chapter2dating.app/love-after-loss-rediscovering-joy-and-connection/ Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief: https://www.guidetoafterlife.com/podcast-signup - Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Find out more about grief support   Your Host’s BIO: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook  Instagram   Linked In   Connect with Nicky Wake: Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/Chapter2Dating/  https://www.facebook.com/widowsfireuk Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/chapter2_dating?igsh=MzVuYTA5ZDVndWlv&utm_source=qr  https://www.instagram.com/widowsfireuk?igsh=NDkycG9mYnVzNmlm&utm_source=qr

    59 min
  4. Season 2, Ep 3. What Happens to Adults Bereaved as Children? Insights from Mandy Gosling, Psychotherapist.

    FEB 4

    Season 2, Ep 3. What Happens to Adults Bereaved as Children? Insights from Mandy Gosling, Psychotherapist.

    Our conversation with Mandy Gosling on childhood bereavement explored the profound and long-lasting impact of losing a parent in childhood. Mandy's personal story and professional insights shed light on how early loss shapes our lives, often in ways we don't fully realise until adulthood. Key Points to Reflect On: Children grieve differently from adults. Their grief may not always be obvious, but it's deeply felt and can resurface at various life stages. The impact of childhood loss can manifest in adult relationships, attachment styles, and coping mechanisms. It's crucial to keep the memory of the deceased parent alive, especially for children. This helps in their grieving process and identity formation. Grief work can happen at any age. It's never too late to address unresolved childhood loss. For those who have experienced childhood bereavement or are supporting children through loss, this episode provided valuable insights and a sense of validation. Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief: https://www.guidetoafterlife.com/podcast-signup - Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Find out more about grief support   Your Host’s BIO: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook  Instagram   Linked In  Mandy Gosling  Mandy Gosling is a UKCP and MBACP accredited psychotherapist, researcher and author, specialising in long-term grief experienced by adults who were bereaved as children. As a bereaved child herself, aged 9, Mandy completed a MA Research in 2016 to understand the long-term impact of childhood bereavement.  ABC Grief – Adults Bereaved as Children, was formed from this research to share knowledge and resources for individuals, and professionals, in this specialist area of bereavement and grief.  Her central focus of private practice is working with individuals who experienced childhood loss and she runs workshops in London.  She is the Clinical Lead at It’s Time Charity who supports young adults with the experience of parental loss and facilitates their group therapy.  Mandy publicly speaks on this topic and is a contributing author in the anthology entitled My Mother’s Story – Gone Too Soon.  She has been published in articles for BACP Therapy Today magazine, and UKCP New Psychotherapist magazine, highlighting the long-term impact of childhood bereavement.   She has been interviewed on BBC Woman's Hour and has contributed to various podcasts to bring awareness to this topic.  Mandy has been part of the All-Party Parliamentary Group alongside the charity Winston’s Wish for childhood bereavement.   She is currently undertaking her PhD at The University of Humanistic Studies in Utrecht, Netherlands, under the guidance of Prof. dr. Geert Smid.  This investigation is to add to the scientific knowledge of long-term grief in adults who were bereaved as children.   She is also a wife, Mum to two adult children and Nana to two grandchildren.  Resources:    For more information, visit www.abcgrief.co.uk or www.mandygosling.co.uk or the social media platforms below: linkedin.com https://www.instagram.com/abcgrief/ Mandy Gosling Psychotherapy & ABC Grief facebook.com

    1h 1m
  5. A Season 2 Episode 2: Rollercoaster Marriage: Navigating Loss of a partner with Dr Louise Lomas, Educational and Child Psychologist

    JAN 28

    A Season 2 Episode 2: Rollercoaster Marriage: Navigating Loss of a partner with Dr Louise Lomas, Educational and Child Psychologist

    A Rollercoaster Marriage: Navigating Loss of a Partner with Dr Louise Lomas, Educational and Child Psychologist  Overview:  This episode dives deep into the turbulent waters of complex grief, exploring the unspoken truths about marriages and loss when relationships are far from perfect. Dr. Louise Lomas, a child & educational psychologist, shares her personal journey of love, loss, and the intricate challenges of grieving a partner with serious mental health problems. This raw & honest conversation unpacks the rollercoaster of emotions experienced when navigating grief after a complicated marriage, offering solace & validation to those who find themselves grappling with similar experiences. Key Insights:  The Unspoken Truth About Marriages: Marriages aren't always picture-perfect. This episode acknowledges the messy realities of long-term relationships and the unique challenges faced when grieving a partner after a complicated marriage. The importance of honest conversations about the complexities of love & loss is highlighted. ([00:01:06]) Loving Too Much: The concept of "loving too much" is explored, delving into the dynamics of codependency & the challenges of disentangling oneself from a relationship where personal needs become intertwined with the needs of a partner. ([00:38:59]) The Inner Child & Grief: Dr. Lomas discusses how unresolved childhood issues can manifest in adult relationships, impacting how we grieve and the intensity of our emotional responses. ([00:34:30]) The Stigma of Mental Health & Addiction in Grief: The added layer of stigma surrounding mental health & addiction is addressed, emphasizing the difficulty of processing grief when a partner struggled with these issues. ([00:05:07]) Rewriting the Narrative: Dr. Lomas suggests the possibility of rewriting the narrative of a complicated relationship after loss, offering a path towards healing by reframing painful memories and exploring alternative outcomes. ([00:57:15]) Notable Quotes & Moments:  "Sometimes you love somebody so much that you can let them go because it's not healthy for either of you." ([00:03:12]) "We were physically separated, but not emotionally separated." ([00:04:36]) "Codependency is about the kind of love and support that you give for each other because you're the only ones that can really understand what is broken in you." ([00:33:09]) "Grief needs no reason... it cradles you and strokes you, tears at you with its strong teeth, warms you with memories...cruelly loving so that you want more and dread its coming." ([00:49:39]) Timestamps:  Introduction of Dr. Louise Lomas: [00:00:52] Dr. Lomas's Background & Experience: [00:02:15] The Rollercoaster of Their Marriage: [00:06:59] The Decision to Separate: [00:16:57] Sam's Passing: [00:22:31] Processing Complex Grief: [00:35:05] Rewriting the Narrative: [00:57:15] Dr. Lomas's Poem on Grief: [00:49:39] Louise’s Poem: Grief needs no reason. Catapulted into consciousness it becomes your unpredictable companion, walking silently and raging tumultuously, keeping pace and stumbling blindly beside you. It cradles you and strokes you, tears at you with its strong teeth, warms you with memories. Memories that bind you to it. Lovingly cruel, cruelly loving so that you want more and dread its coming. Bio: I am an educational and child psychologist currently living and working in Australia in private practice as part of a paediatric psychology clinic. I trained at UCL and worked for a Local Authority for a few years before setting up in private practice in 2016. In July 2021, I moved to New Delhi where I worked as the psychologist for an American international school - I absolutely loved living in India! While there, I was offered a great job here on the Mornington peninsula, which is just south of Melbourne, and I moved here in September 2023. I have two adult sons, one in Melbourne and one in Sheffield. I was married to my husband, Sam, for 32 years. Resources: Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief.  Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. Find out more about grief support   Your Host’s BIO: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook  Instagram   Linked In

    1h 4m
  6. Episode 1: Grief Comes Before Death: Anticipatory Grief with Clare Dawson & Tatum De Roeck from Shine, Cancer Charity.

    JAN 21

    Episode 1: Grief Comes Before Death: Anticipatory Grief with Clare Dawson & Tatum De Roeck from Shine, Cancer Charity.

    Season 2, Episode 1: Grief Comes Before Death: Anticipatory Grief with Claire Dawson & Tatum De Roeck from Shine, Cancer Charity. Episode Overview: This episode delves into the often-overlooked realm of anticipatory grief, exploring the complex emotions and challenges faced by partners of individuals diagnosed with incurable cancer. I had an absolute honour to talk to two inspirational women: Claire Dawson and Tatum Roeck from SHINE, a cancer charity supporting individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s with cancer diagnosis, and their families. Together, they unravel the layers of anticipatory grief, offering insights, validation, and practical advice for navigating this difficult journey.   Key Discussion Points:   The Cultural Disconnect: The episode highlights the lack of cultural understanding and language surrounding death and dying, particularly when it comes to younger individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. This often leads to isolation and difficulty processing the overwhelming emotions that arise. (00:11:00) The Shock and Denial: The initial shock of a diagnosis can trigger self-preservation mechanisms, making it hard to acknowledge the life-altering shift that has occurred. This is often compounded by well-meaning but dismissive comments from others. (00:15:24) The Importance of Space: SHINE's programs provide a safe and supportive space for partners to express their complex feelings without judgment, recognizing that anticipatory grief involves a range of emotions, from anger and guilt to the pre-grieving of a relationship that has already changed. (00:17:06) Navigating Changing Relationships: The episode explores the difficult reality of how relationships transform when a partner is facing a terminal illness, and how the traditional roles of spouse and caregiver can become blurred. (00:34:55) Finding Resilience Through Self-Care: Simple practices like breathing exercises, massage, yoga, and physical touch can be crucial for managing stress, regulating emotions, and tending to oneself during times of intense emotional strain. (00:46:22) The Power of Shared Experience: The camaraderie and shared laughter within SHINE's programs offer a unique form of support, allowing individuals to connect with others who truly understand their experiences. (00:23:31) Asking for Help: The episode emphasizes the importance of identifying one's needs and seeking support, even when it feels difficult or unnatural. SHINE's programs offer guidance and encouragement in this area. (01:00:04)   Notable Quotes:   "It is the end of the life you thought you were going to have." - Tatum De Roeck (00:38:13) "To have that and often very suddenly taken away... no wonder it feels like a part of you dying too because in some ways it is, isn't it?" - Clare Dawson (00:39:44)   Guests Bios:   Clare Dawson Clare is our Programme Delivery Manager and oversees our four online programmes which run throughout the year. She also delivers  workshops to healthcare professionals and in person day events. Making sure that all our programmes reflect the kinds of conversations we know are important to young adults going through cancer; she loves speaking to prospective participants, facilitating sessions and devising content.  Clare originally trained in Law with a particular interest in criminal defence and medical negligence but her health got in the way and she put down the case law and legislation in 2010. Subsequently, she found her way to Shine after some counselling training and several years working as a freelance trainer in healthcare environments, doing her best to make sure that the patient’s perspective is heard and prioritised. In every role, Clare realised that her priority was making sure that people going through difficult times didn’t have to do it alone. Clare initially joined Shine as a member in 2016 after treatment for an osteosarcoma at 17 left her with some tricky long term health complications to manage. In her downtime, she likes true crime series, overspending at bookshops and shooting the breeze with her (or anyone else’s) dog.   Tatum De Roeck  Tatum is a facilitator on Shine’s Break Out programme and has previously contributed to many Great Escapes and Shine Connect conferences.  As a yoga teacher and body worker she’s created classes for Shine, shared lots of relaxation and self massage tips, while also being a peer supporter and host of Shine’s podcast Not Your Grandma’s Cancer Show. Tatum was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2011, while living in LA, but she had to come back to the UK and start her life here from scratch without her circle of friends.  She went to a Shine drinks meetup and met a great group of people. Over the 8 years with Shine she’s worn many different hats. She loves hula hooping but isn’t very good at it, yet.     Resources & Links:   SHINE Cancer Support: Visit their website https://shinecancersupport.org/get-support/friends-family-support/ to learn more about their programs and how to apply: https://shinecancersupport.org/get-support/programmes-and-events/ Not Your Grandma's Cancer Show Podcast: Listen to SHINE's podcast for more personal stories and insights: https://shinecancersupport.org/resources/podcast-2/ Connect with Shine on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShineCancerSupport/?locale=en_GB and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinecancersupport/?hl=en-gb   If you've been touched by the experiences shared in this episode, please consider supporting SHINE by spreading the word about their valuable work, donating or fundraising for Shine by visiting their website: https://shinecancersupport.org/support-us/   Don't forget to subscribe to A Guide to After Life podcast list to be notified of more conversations about navigating grief:  - Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Find out more about grief support   Your Host: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook Instagram  Linked In

    1h 10m
  7. Season 2 Trailer

    SEASON 2 TRAILER

    Season 2 Trailer

    Welcome to A Guide to After Life, your go-to podcast for young widows. I’m your host, Dr. Monika Wieliczko, a psychologist and a fellow widow, helping you move from surviving to thriving after loss.  Following on from a highly acclaimed first season, I’m delighted to announce Season 2 begins on 21st January. I’m excited to announce I will be joined by world renowned grief experts and authors discussing complex grief issues, sharing  their knowledge and personal stories of loss. We explore how grief manifests in your body, learn ways to regulate your nervous system, and support your children’s grieving process. My aim is to challenge the way you think about loss, empower you to face your feelings, and help you develop resilient ways to grieve. Have you ever considered how your personality, past experiences, and the culture you live in shape the way you grieve? What if your reactions to the loss are driven by patterns that you may not be aware of? If you want to find out how to cope with complicated relationships after loss, learn ways to manage grief bombs in the workplace, and how losing a parent can impact your child’s life. This is the podcast for you. To find out more, visit ⁠www.guidetoafterlife.com⁠ and take part in the Grief MOT, your first step to move from surviving to thriving after loss.  Join the grief revolution from 21st January on your preferred podcast platform where every Tuesday we tackle grief topics no one else dares to talk about.

    3 min
  8. Episode 12. Resilient Ways to Grieve: Insights from Season 1 with Dr Monika Wieliczko, Clinical Psychologist.

    11/19/2024

    Episode 12. Resilient Ways to Grieve: Insights from Season 1 with Dr Monika Wieliczko, Clinical Psychologist.

    As we close Season One of A Guide to After Life, I want to take a moment to reflect on the meaningful conversations we’ve had over the past three months. It’s been a deeply moving journey, exploring grief and resilience through the lens of different experiences and perspectives. In this episode, I look back on some of the key themes we’ve touched on: The complexities of relationships after loss and how grief impacts connection. The unique ways children experience and process grief, including their understanding of its permanence. The challenges of solo parenting in the midst of grief and the importance of self-compassion. How grief affects our neuropsychology and the healing power of understanding this process. One thread that has run through all our discussions is the importance of vulnerability and shared experiences. Grief is often isolating, but when we open up to others—whether through professional support, community, or simply honest conversations—it can foster connection and healing. Looking ahead to Season Two, I’m committed to diving even deeper into topics like grief, loss, and rebuilding life after loss. If there are specific areas you’d like to hear about, I’d love to know. Thank you for being a part of this season. Your engagement and willingness to explore these difficult but essential topics have been incredible. Together, we’re creating a community of support, understanding, and hope. Listen now to reflect with me on this season and look forward to what’s to come in Season Two. Help me share the future of our podcast: Do you have a burning question you would like me to answer or an important message to share with your fellow widows? Whether you would like to be my guest speaker or have a questions concerning loss, grief and life after loss, please get in touch with me. Fill out the form and I will get back to you as soon as possible.   Helpful links and resources:  - Take part in the Free Grief MOT to find out if you are stuck in a state of shock or whether your grief is progressing and does not require professional help. - Book a free 15-consultation with me to discuss the results of your Grief MOT - Find out about Grief Group Therapy that I offer - Unsure whether to see a psychologist, psychotherapist or counsellor or grief coach for grief support? Read this blog post to find out more. - Find out more about grief support   My BIO: Dr Monika Wieliczko, Chartered Clinical Psychologist D.Clin.Psych, MSc, MA Psychologist by profession, and a widow, in private. Connect with me on social media: Facebook, Instagram, Linked In  I have lost my life partner of 15 years to bowel cancer after a long and gruesome fight for his life. These experiences shaped and changed me forever affecting every aspect of my life personally and professionally. The three most challenging years of my life made me realise that our society has a profound problem with death and shaped my understanding of what life is really about. I consciously bring both perspectives into my practice; incorporating 15 years’ worth of knowledge of how our minds work with a large dose of lived experience of grief and mourning. I know the pain of loss but I also understand the burden of unaddressed grief. The unresolved feelings surrounding your late partner can prolong your grief for years, stopping you from truly mourning your loss, affecting your entire life. By making a conscious effort to understand and work through your grief you give yourself permission to live your life again. Apart from running a private practice, I am also a visiting lecturer at The Institute of Psychiatry in London delivering teaching for trainee clinical psychologists. My research interests involve the effects of profound trauma on grief response and the community-based approach to helping people with grief. I have worked within the NHS as well as private and charitable organisations in the UK since 2011. I have trained at various universities across the UK and Poland and I have completed my doctoral studies at the Canterbury Christ Church University.

    25 min

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A Guide to After Life is your go-to podcast for the young and widowed. This is your weekly space to help you live through grief.

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