Coping with grief on Mother’s Day

If someone you love has died or is dying, Mother’s Day can be a painful reminder of your loss. Find resources to help.

Resources for coping with grief and loss

Grief is a natural response to loss, and it often feels stronger on holidays like Mother’s Day, especially when remembering a mother or mother-figure who has died. There is no right way to grieve or timeline for healing, but sharing your experience, learning how others cope and seeking grief support or bereavement counseling can help you navigate these emotions.

Missing mom on Mother’s Day

Just as Mother’s Day elicits emotions of joy and gratitude for some people, it can serve as a source of loss and grief for those whose mothers or mother figures are no longer alive.

A man puts his arm around his wife to console her

There is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ when it comes to grief

None of us is truly comfortable with grief. We feel self-conscious, believing we are not “doing it right.” But this is not true. Click to read more.

A woman rests her hand on a man's shoulder as he grieves

Remembering loved ones on holidays

Sometimes bereaved persons feel sad not only that their loved one is no longer here, but also that others seem reluctant to talk about him or her.

When death has passed: living from here (PDF)

We hope this downloadable booklet will help you see that you’re doing the best you can for now, and trust that you’ll feel stronger and more confident in your own good time.

Pink flowering shrubs above a turbulent stream

Después de la muerte: Vivir a partir de aquí (PDF)

Esperamos que este folleto descargable le ayude a reconocer que está haciendo lo mejor que puede en este momento y a confiar en que, con el tiempo, se sentirá más fuerte y más seguro de sí mismo, avanzando a su propio ritmo.

Frequently asked questions

When is the Mother’s Day Grief Helpline available? +

VITAS bereavement specialists will be available between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. Eastern Time, 5 a.m. and 8 p.m. Pacific Time, on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 10, 2026.

What is Mother’s Day grief? +

Mother’s Day grief is the emotional pain or sadness people feel on or around Mother’s Day after the loss of a mother or loved one.

Why does grief feel stronger on holidays? +

Holidays often highlight absence, memories and traditions, which can intensify feelings of loss.

How can I cope with grief on Mother’s Day? +

You can cope by honoring your loved one, talking with others, adjusting expectations and seeking grief support if needed.

A teenage girl, with her head down, hugs her knees as she sits on a sofa

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