E58: What Are Secondary Losses? Examples, Types, and a 3-Part Framework for Processing Them

Secondary losses are the ripple effects that follow a major loss—and naming them can be one of the most validating things you do for yourself in grief. I'm breaking down what secondary losses are, sharing real examples, and walking you through a simple three-part framework for identifying and processing yours.

You'll learn:

  • The difference between a primary loss and a secondary loss—and why both deserve to be grieved

  • How to identify your own secondary losses using my Immediate, Gradual, and Surprise framework

  • Why secondary losses are a sign of significance—not excessive grief

  • Four practical ways to grieve your secondary losses with compassion and intention

Listen to This Episode:

E58: What Are Secondary Losses? Examples, Types, and a 3-Part Framework for Processing Them
Shelby Forsythia, Grief Coach and Author

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Download the transcript for this episode here.

Shelby Forsythia

Shelby Forsythia (she/her) is a grief coach, author, and podcast host. In 2020, she founded Life After Loss Academy, an online course and community that has helped dozens of grievers grow and find their way after death, divorce, diagnosis, and other major life transitions.

Following her mother’s death in 2013, Shelby began calling herself a “student of grief” and now devotes her days to reading, writing, and speaking about loss. Through a combination of mindfulness tools and intuitive, open-ended questions, she guides her clients to welcome grief as a teacher and create meaningful lives that honor and include the heartbreaks they’ve faced. Her work has been featured in Huffington Post, Bustle, and The Oprah Magazine.

https://www.shelbyforsythia.com
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E59: Supporting Someone #9: 3 Phrases to Help Someone Grieving (LIVE Book Party Talk Replay!)

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E57: 7 Practical, Gentle Ways to Ask for Help After Loss (Even When Your Energy Is Low)