Why do some objects complicate grief?
Grief is an intimate and gradual process. It’s not about forgetting, but about integrating the absence into one’s life. However, some objects act as constant reminders of the loss, preventing the mind from finding peace. They can awaken sadness, guilt, or a feeling of emotional stagnation.
Emotional well-being experts agree on one point: keeping many emotionally charged objects can slow down the healing process. The goal isn’t to throw everything away, but to choose what truly offers you support and let go of what causes you pain.
Very personal clothing
A coat or scarf can sometimes offer comfort, but highly personal clothing is often more difficult to manage emotionally. Its texture, smell, and presence in the closet can rekindle very strong, sometimes painful, memories.
If you find that these clothes make you sad every time you see them, perhaps it’s time to get rid of them. Donating them to charity, recycling them, or simply removing them from your space can be a liberating act, while also respecting the person’s memory.
