Losing a parent can be one of the most challenging experiences a person can face, especially during young adulthood. The emotional turmoil and sense of loss can be overwhelming, making it difficult to navigate daily life. In such times, the support of extended family members, particularly siblings, can play a vital role in helping individuals cope with grief.

The Importance of Support
When Sridevi passed away in 2018, her daughters Janhvi and Khushi Kapoor were just 21 and 17 years old, respectively. During this difficult time, they found unexpected support from their step-siblings, Anshula and Arjun Kapoor. Anshula reflected on why she reached out to her younger sisters, saying that she didn't want them to go through the same pain and struggles she faced when her mother passed away.

How Extended Family Can Help
Counselling psychologists emphasize that siblings or extended family cannot erase the grief, but they can soften its weight. Their role is to provide stability through small and consistent gestures, such as:

- Checking in after a long day
- Eating together
- Simply being present

Presence without pressure is key. By being reliable and consistent, extended family members can help build trust and create a safe space for individuals to express their emotions.

Rebuilding Relationships in Times of Grief
When bonds were not strong before, families can rebuild relationships in times of grief by:

- Sharing meals
- Asking about daily routines
- Showing up during difficult times
- Acknowledging awkwardness rather than hiding it

Consistency is what builds trust, and repeated reminders that someone is choosing to invest in the relationship can be incredibly powerful.

Grieving in Public View
In today's digital age, grieving can be a harsh reality. Individuals may face external pressures, comments, and expectations, making it challenging to cope with personal loss. To manage this, it's essential to:

- Protect emotional boundaries
- Mute, block, or step away from digital spaces when needed
- Ask a trusted friend to manage online interactions during vulnerable times
- Remember that grief is not a performance, and it's okay to not be composed or strong for the outside world

Conclusion
Coping with grief is a unique and individual experience, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach. However, with the support of extended family members, particularly siblings, individuals can navigate this challenging journey with more ease. By providing stability, consistency, and presence, extended family can help individuals cope with grief and rebuild relationships in the process.