At a recent concert by Canadian singer-songwriter Sarah McLachlan, one song in particular caught my attention. It spoke of love, friendship, and the quiet heartbreak that comes with letting go. Sitting there, I was reminded of how little space we give ourselves — or others — to grieve the end of a friendship.
When we lose a friend, especially one who once knew our world deeply, it can feel disorienting. Yet our culture rarely names this as grief. We tend to reserve that word for death, divorce, or more “visible” losses. But the ending of a friendship — through conflict, betrayal, distance, or silence — can leave just as significant a mark.
This kind of loss is known as disenfranchised grief — grief that isn’t openly recognized or socially supported. Because there’s no ceremony, no condolences, and often no closure, the pain can feel invisible. You may find yourself replaying conversations, wondering what went wrong, or missing the person even after deciding to step away.
If you’ve been through a friendship breakup, you’re not alone. Many people quietly carry this kind of grief, unsure where to place it or how to move through it. Sometimes, what’s needed most is simply to have your experience seen, heard, and held — without judgment.
Your story matters. Your loss matters. And it’s possible to find meaning again.
Therapy can offer a safe and compassionate space to explore unfinished feelings, restore balance, and move toward a healthier, freer relationship with yourself and others.
Accepting new clients.
Book today: Sharlene Hamilton MPCC
Sharlene Hamilton
Grief • Neurodiversity • Relationships • LGBTQ+ • Spiritual Questioning
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