To make a very, very, long story short: I am 39. My Dad died 9 years ago and now my Mom just passed away this summer (4 months ago). My sisters are 10 & 12 yrs older than me. I am trying to deal with the death of my parents and they keep telling me “just deal with it”. I have always had “the little sister syndrome” and never seem to be at the same stage of life as them. There is such a gap. I have never felt close to my sisters and now without my parents, I feel I have no connections left to them. I’ve googled and searched, but cannot find any sources about other people with such a gap between siblings and how they deal with it. People say to surround yourself with others who make you feel good… my sisters do not do that for me. So, is it bad that I just want to go on with my little life and my family? My sisters seem to cause me more stress and unhappiness than anything.
Grieving Your Parents Without Sibling Support
Thank you for turning to Insight Psychological. I’m very sorry for the loss of your mother and father, and for the current circumstances between you and your sisters. The lack of emotional connection and depth in your relationships with your sisters seems to have been an ongoing dynamic for years. It is unfortunate that you and your sisters aren’t able to connect as a family, especially since the recent loss of your mother. You seem to have reached out and attempted to bond with them, but they have not been receptive.
Surround Yourself With Supportive People
As a part of moving forward in life, it is important for you to surround yourself with people that are loving and supportive, and empathetic to your grieving process. You should feel respected and listened to by those you turn to for support. Your sisters don’t seem very helpful or supportive of you at this time.
If you would like to discuss this matter further, please contact our office and we can book an appointment for you with one of our therapists.
