[colorblind]

I lost my Dad 3 days back. I have a younger brother (25) and Mom with me. Until yesterday night, I spoke with brother, I realized the emotional support they both need. He is a tough guy but was emotionally close to my dad, now he is kind of broken and same is for my Mom. I am located in other state professionally. I am strong and tactful enough but a little confused to make it effective to my family. I WANT to balance my professional and family life. After a couple of months I am going to join a new job that might be within or outside my state. I am in the mid of my research thesis. Some ideas and strategies from you might help me and some other people like me struggling with this situation. Thank you for your time.

[teacherjenn4]

Find a grief support group in your area. It can be very comforting and helpful to speak with others who are also suffering from a loss.

[joypulv]

Give yourself much more time to really grieve. I would guess that your school would give you a leave of absence to go to your mother and brother. A professor who is your advisor? Surely if you are at the thesis stage you can postpone it.

I worry about people who don't take time off, because then guilt takes over, and any time something happens to your mother or brother you will blame yourself for not spending some time with them. Don't try to suppress grief. 'Good' grief heals.

[AtLarge]

What was said below is very true. Remember, death is as much a part of life as birth. I have found that taking time to reflect on that relationship and savor the good memories is healing. Try not to fall into the trap of having regrets. None of us are perfect and it would seem that there was a lot of love there. Focus on that and carry that forward with you.