Buzz
Grief doesn’t have a set path. Everyone experiences loss differently, and it happens on their own schedule. It can also be elusive: You may believe you've worked through it, only to be caught off guard when a particular song, scent, or memory triggers the pain of loss all over again.
Interestingly, some have discovered that holding onto a transitional object can help them mourn someone who has passed, keeping a part of them near in the process. Here’s an example of how that might unfold.
What exactly are transitional objects?
Transitional objects are often most discussed in relation to children, particularly those who experience separation anxiety. In a 2018 article from Mytour, this concept was explored with the following description.
For children who struggle with parting from their parents, a comforting transitional object, like a stuffed animal or a favorite toy, can be quite beneficial. It helps them feel a sense of security and consistency, especially in their younger years.
What do transitional objects look like for adults? As with the grieving process itself, it's deeply personal. Some individuals find solace in photographs or videos of a loved one who has passed away, while others may prefer a physical object that belonged to the deceased, as it brings them a sense of closeness, as noted by Lisa Kanarek in a Well+Good article.
What role do transitional objects play in helping individuals cope with loss?
While some people may not find comfort in transitional objects and instead avoid the deceased’s belongings, for others, these items become an essential part of their journey through grief and recovery.
Megan Devine, LPC, psychotherapist and bestselling author of It’s Okay That You’re Not Okay, explained in an interview with Well+Good that for many individuals, it serves as proof that the person existed, particularly if their death was sudden. She noted, “Even in cases where the death was anticipated, there’s often this sense of unreality, like they were here, and now they’re gone.”
