Grief is a deeply personal and often challenging emotional journey, one that can take on countless forms and manifest in diverse ways. When couples endure such heart-wrenching moments, they often discover that they grieve differently, which can strain their relationships. This can create a profound and sometimes bewildering disconnect in the relationship, leading to feelings of isolation, frustration, and confusion. In this enlightening conversation, we delve into the complexities of grieving differently as a couple and explore valuable insights to help couples maintain and enhance their connections during these trying times. By recognizing the individuality of each person's grief, fostering open and honest communication, and seeking external support when necessary, couples can discover meaningful ways to journey through their mourning together, strengthening their emotional bonds in the process. Kelly Cervantes is an award-winning writer, speaker, and advocate best known for her blog Inchstones. She is the immediate past board chair for the nonprofit CURE Epilepsy and also hosts their biweekly podcast, Seizing Life. Kelly currently resides in Maplewood, NJ, with her husband, Miguel Cervantes currently starring in Hamilton on Broadway, their children, and two dogs, Tabasco and Sriracha. Her book Normal Broken: The Grief Companion For When It’s Time to Heal But You’re Not Sure You Want To. Check out the transcript of this episode on Dr. Jessica Higgin's website. In this episode 5:28 Kelly Cervantes’ grief journey and its impact on relationships. 17:17 The importance of open communication and managing expectations. 21:12 The evolving nature of grief in relationships: Communication, acceptance, and moments of connection. 27:59 Navigating connection and intimacy amidst grief: The impact of a pandemic and prior experiences. 39:29 The significance of seeking and accepting support during the grieving process. 45:28 Creating shared meaning in grief: Finding moments of connection and support. Mentioned Normal Broken: The Grief Companion for When It's Time to Heal but You're Not Sure You Want To (*Amazon Affiliate link) (book) Grief Refuge (download link) (app) Center for Loss & Life Transition Connect with Kelly Cervantes Websites: kellycervantes.com Facebook: facebook.com/kellygc411 Twitter: twitter.com/KellyGC411 Instagram: instagram.com/kellygc411 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kelly-cervantes-6b3a7ba Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/seizing-life/id1450310889 Connect with Dr. Jessica Higgins Facebook: facebook.com/EmpoweredRelationship  Instagram: instagram.com/drjessicahiggins  Podcast: drjessicahiggins.com/podcasts/ Pinterest: pinterest.com/EmpowerRelation  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjessicahiggins  Twitter: @DrJessHiggins  Website: drjessicahiggins.com   Email: [email protected] If you have a topic you would like me to discuss, please contact me by clicking on the “Ask Dr. Jessica Higgins” button here.  Thank you so much for your interest in improving your relationship.  Also, I would so appreciate your honest rating and review. Please leave a review by clicking here.  Thank you!   *With Amazon Affiliate Links, I may earn a few cents from Amazon, if you purchase the book from this link.