Healing Through Father’s Day 2025: A Therapist’s Guide to Navigating Grief

Father’s Day often brings mixed emotions, especially for those grieving. While summer conjures images of barbecues, baseball, and beer, the day can also highlight the absence of a father figure.

For many, Father’s Day is filled with memories and longing, especially if your relationship with your dad was complicated or if he is no longer with you. Originally, Father’s Day began in 1908 to honor men who lost their lives in a tragic mining accident and wasn’t officially recognized until the 1960s. Today, it’s a day to celebrate the important role fathers play in our lives, but it can also intensify feelings of loss.

Be Gentle and Flexible With Yourself

Grief doesn’t follow a schedule. You might plan to distract yourself with activities, but when the day arrives, you may feel the need to rest or reflect quietly. Allow yourself the freedom to respond to your emotions without judgment. Whether you want to stay in bed with comfort food or spend time outdoors, honoring your feelings is key to healing.

Remember: It’s Just One Day

Father’s Day is a date on the calendar, not a mandate for how you must feel. If you wake up feeling peaceful or even joyful, that’s okay. You don’t have to force sadness or guilt. Ignoring the day altogether is also a valid choice. Your emotions are personal and don’t need to align with societal expectations.

Offer Yourself the Love Your Father Gave

Many of us have complex relationships with our dads. Reflect on the love and generosity he showed you, even if it was expressed differently than you expected. Embrace the kindness, pragmatism, or support he offered and extend that same compassion to yourself today.

Or Give Yourself the Love You Wished He Had Shown

If your father’s love was absent or difficult, recognize that you deserve kindness from yourself. As a therapist, I encourage you to nurture your inner child and practice self-compassion. Silencing your inner critic and allowing yourself grace can be transformative steps toward emotional healing.

Remember: Coping Comes in Many Forms

Not all coping strategies are perfect or traditionally “healthy,” and that’s okay. Sometimes, simply getting through the day is enough. Don’t pressure yourself to meet an ideal of coping. If you did something that helped you survive Father’s Day—even if it wasn’t flawless—that’s a success. Your journey is unique, and you deserve unconditional love and acceptance.

For those seeking support, there are excellent online grief counseling services available that can provide guidance and comfort during difficult times.

About the Author: Theodora Blanchfield, AMFT, is an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and mental health writer dedicated to helping others navigate grief and emotional challenges. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and actively contributes to mental health awareness initiatives.

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