THE JOURNAL.

Thoughtful writing on grief, identity, mental health and the science of healing.

A growing collection of evidence-informed articles, therapist insights and practical tools to help you better understand grief and navigate life after loss.

Why Do I Feel Guilty When I'm Happy?</span>
Therapist Answers Chloe Cassidy Therapist Answers Chloe Cassidy

Why Do I Feel Guilty When I'm Happy?

If you've ever caught yourself laughing, feeling hopeful, or enjoying life again, only to be met with an overwhelming sense of guilt, you're not alone. Many people worry that happiness means they're forgetting the person they lost. In this article, I explore why guilt and joy often coexist after loss, what this response tells us about the grieving brain, and why healing never requires you to stop loving someone.

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