My mother-in-law lost her husband three weeks ago and keeps apologizing for crying when we visit, saying she knows we don't want to hear about it. My husband and I realize we've been asking 'how are you doing?' then immediately changing the subject when she actually answers.
More people experience this than they realize.
Discomfort with emotional honesty creates a cycle where grieving people learn to hide their pain to protect others.
“Where Are You with What not to say to a grieving person?”
If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.