As a counsellor working with people online and from my practice in West London, Oxford and Cheltenham, I've noticed that men often struggle to find support when dealing with pregnancy loss. Whether you've experienced a miscarriage with your partner or are processing feelings about an abortion, your emotions are valid and deserve attention. Many men feel uncertain about their right to grieve or question whether their feelings are normal.

Understanding Male Grief

Society often expects men to be the "strong one" during times of loss, to support their partner while pushing aside their own emotions. This expectation can leave you feeling isolated, confused, and unsure how to process your feelings. You might be asking yourself if it's normal to feel such profound grief, anger, or helplessness.

Common Questions and Concerns

Many men wonder how they can support their partner while dealing with their own emotions. You might be struggling with questions like "Should I show my grief?" or "How can I help when I'm hurting too?" These questions are normal and important to address.

Balancing Support and Self-Care

Supporting your partner while taking care of your own emotional needs can feel like walking a tightrope. It's important to remember that acknowledging your own grief doesn't diminish your partner's experience. In fact, sharing your feelings can often strengthen your connection during this difficult time.

Breaking the Silence

Men often feel pressure to remain stoic and strong, but bottling up emotions can lead to:

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Relationship strain
• Difficulty processing grief
• Long-term emotional impact

Finding Healthy Ways to Cope

There are several ways to process your feelings while maintaining support for your partner:

• Open communication about your emotions
• Seeking support from trusted friends or family
• Engaging in physical activity or other stress-relief activities
• Joining support groups specifically for men dealing with pregnancy loss

When to Seek Professional Help

If you're finding it difficult to cope, experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, or struggling to communicate with your partner, professional support can help. There's no shame in seeking guidance during this challenging time.

Moving Forward Together

Remember that grief has no timeline, and there's no "right" way to feel. Whether your loss was recent or happened years ago, your feelings matter and deserve attention.

If you're struggling to process your emotions around pregnancy loss, I'm here to help. At Hope and Harmony, we can work together to address your feelings in a safe, non-judgmental space. You don't have to navigate this journey alone – reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Remember, your experience and emotions are valid, and support is available when you're ready to talk.