The loss of a loved one is always painful, but when the death is sudden, or there are unanswered questions surrounding it, the grief can be intensified and coping can be much more challenging, with many survivors struggling with accepting the tragedy all together. The news of yet another missing flight not only leaves a devastating impact on loved ones, but also reopens the painful wounds of those still awaiting answers of their own tragic events.
For those with loved ones on the AirAsia flight, the tremendous amount of confusion and numerous questions surrounding what happened can cause intense distress and lasting emotional trauma. A sense of closure is a critical part of dealing with our grief in a healthy way rather than a destructive way. But for those who have little answers surrounding their loved one’s death, closure is much harder to come by. They may struggle with depression, anxiety, increased irritability, and a decreased appetite. Women may turn to self-medication through prescription medicine or alcohol abuse to escape reality.
The news of another missing airliner, families from the Malaysia MH370 flight that disappeared in March were forced to reopen the emotional wounds and relive their own nightmare. For family and friends who have struggled to resume life without those they love, a familiar story may trigger these unhealthy coping mechanisms and worsen their mental health.
On Tuesday December 30, news broke that debris from the missing AirAsia flight 8501 was discovered off the coast of Borneo. As the devastating reality sets in for the families of all 162 passengers on board, confusion still lingers for those whose loved ones remain missing almost 10 months later, as they are forced to move on without closure.
Though the sudden and tragic loss of a loved one shocks and leaves a void that seems to engulf all happiness, there is hope. Since opening its doors, Brookhaven Retreat has helped countless women struggling with complex grief find the closure they need through therapy, projects and a nurturing hand.
