Clinically reviewed by Natascha Storf, Women's Health Psychologist & Researcher| Last reviewed: October 2025
It’s one of the hardest parts of loss — when people you love don’t seem to understand it. Friends may avoid the topic entirely or say things that sting: “At least it was early.” “You can try again.” “Everything happens for a reason.” When grief is dismissed or explained away by others, it creates what psychologists call secondary loss — losing the feeling of being understood. This can make you feel more alone in your grief.
The difficult thing about this is that you know they mean well and likely do not understand that they are hurting you, but it still hurts. Often what people need most after a miscarriage is empathy and presence. But many friends do not know what to do or say, so they try to fix what can’t be fixed or offer silver linings.
Why Friends Struggle
Society is uncomfortable with grief, especially reproductive grief. Many people don’t know what to say, so they minimize, rationalize, or change the subject. Most people were never taught how to face and talk about grief. Sometimes your pain mirrors their own fears — about loss, control, or the body — and avoidance feels safer than empathy.
What You Can Do
Set expectations clearly. “I don’t need advice; I just need someone to listen.” Most people want to help but need guidance.
Choose your circle carefully. Some friendships might shift. New people may show up while others fade — this is part of how grief can change your relationships.
Try to regulate your emotions. If a comment or conversation makes you feel hurt, take a pause. Take a slow breath in through your nose, and out through your mouth. Feel your feet on the floor. It’s ok to say something like “I need a second” or “That’s hard to hear.”
Use scripts if needed.
“I know you mean well, but that comment really hurt.”
“I’m not ready to talk about it right now.”
“I’d love it if you could just sit with me.”
Allow distance. If someone consistently minimises your feelings, it’s okay to take space. Protecting your peace is healthy.
A Note on Forgiveness
Over time, some friendships can repair. Rebuilding connection after loss isn’t about forgetting who hurt you, but it’s about creating space for those who can now meet you where you are. Grief can change relationships, but it can also deepen them — making room for honesty, tenderness and truth.
Some friendships won’t repair. Both outcomes are okay. Protect your peace first; empathy can come later.
For more on navigating conversations about your loss, read What to Say When Someone Asks About Your Miscarriage — which includes practical scripts you can use when you’re caught off guard. And for the wider context of building life after loss, see our guide Pregnancy After Miscarriage: Hope, Fear, and the Meaning of a Rainbow Baby.
Navigating life after loss can feel isolating. Sibyl is a private, clinically-informed space to process what you’re going through — whether that’s grief, fertility fears, or the anxiety of trying again. Everything you share is confidential. Try Sibyl
