Is it normal to feel guilty for feeling peace after a death?

Experiencing a sense of peace or even relief after someone dies, especially following a long illness or difficult relationship, is a common human response. This feeling doesn't diminish your love or care for the person; it often reflects the natural human desire for an end to suffering, both theirs and your own. Many people find themselves grappling with these unexpected emotions, and it's a testament to the complex nature of grief.

Research indicates that approximately 60% of individuals experience feelings of relief or peace at some point during the grieving process, particularly after a prolonged illness or difficult loss.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who feels guilty for feeling peace after a death?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel guilty for feeling peace after a death?

Does Everyone?

Is it weird to feel peace, or even relief, after someone dies?

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel guilty for feeling peace after a death?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

I still can’t quite believe she’s gone, like actually gone, and I keep replaying the moment she announced it in the morning stand-up, just so sudden and professional, and I swear I felt a literal… …

relief at loss

” And the entire time she was talking, all I could think about was the time she sent back a banner ad design for the FIFTH time, with a sticky note that just said, in her perfect, infuriating script,… …

relief at loss

I’m sitting on the floor right now, just staring at the empty takeout containers, and it's quiet for the first time in what feels like forever. …

relief at loss

ok so this is kinda messed up but the *relief* when they announced that mr. …

relief at loss

You know that feeling, that absolute SURGE of relief, when someone who's made every single day, every single day, a little bit worse just... …

relief at loss

Frequently Asked Questions

Why might I feel relief after a loved one's death?▾
Relief often surfaces when the deceased endured a prolonged illness, or when the relationship itself was challenging. It can be a natural response to the cessation of suffering for the person who passed, or an end to the strain and stress on caregivers or family members.
Does feeling peace mean I didn't care about them?▾
Absolutely not. Feeling peace is a separate emotion from your love or care. It often arises from the end of struggle or pain, and it doesn't diminish the significance of the person or your relationship with them. Grief is multifaceted and includes a wide range of emotions.
How can I cope with guilt about feeling peaceful?▾
Allow yourself to experience the full spectrum of your emotions without judgment. Talking to a trusted friend or family member about these feelings can be helpful. Remember that grief is not linear, and conflicting emotions are a normal part of the healing process.

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