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So, let\u2019s talk about the challenging journey of grief and dementia with today\u2019s guest, Niesia Garza\u2026

Before we begin today\u2019s episode, let me ask you for a quick favor\u2026

Imagine yourself as an artist with an amazing and delicate base\u2026with beautiful patterns and vibrant colors, each representing the memories and experiences of your loved one\u2026

Now, continue to imagine that same base, but through time, see it starting to develop tiny cracks\u2026the once vibrant colors and beautiful patterns now starting to fade away\u2026

Did you do it? If yes, how did it make you feel?

Did it cause you emotional pain? Confusion? How about being anxious? Did it scare you?

Because that experience, in essence, is equivalent to the one that your loved ones undergo while dealing with dementia. More importantly, it's the experience of the family members who have to provide care to their loved ones whose deterioration of brain functions has already begun.

Yes, dementia doesn't just affect the person suffering from it, but also those around them. It is a debilitating experience that's as painful for the family members as it is for the patient.

Fortunately, we have America\u2019s favorite Grief Counselor here with us today to help us navigate through the challenging journey of dealing with a family member who no longer remembers you or your name.

Niesia Garza, a licensed clinical social worker and registered play therapist, is the Founder and CEO of Daniel\u2019s Harbor Therapy Center. Inspired by and in honor of her late son, whom she lost at two, it aims to be a beacon of compassion and support to those journeying through traumatic grief. She and her team are devoted to increasing empathy and understanding in a world where finding a safe space to grieve is rare.

Join me in taking a moment to pause and reflect as we gain valuable insights from our esteemed guest.

Why you need to check this episode:

• Understand the changes that happen to people with dementia, and why you should not take their words and actions personally;
• Recognize the importance of self-care and protecting your mental health when dealing with the challenge of taking care of a demented loved one; and
• Discover how crucial it is for you to allow yourself to feel, to acknowledge your feelings, and learn how to walk with your grief

\u201cYou got to feel. You got to sit with those feelings. You got to [learn] to walk with your grief. Because again, there\u2019s no [such thing as] time heals all wounds. There is no time. You\u2019re learning to walk. There\u2019s no destination with grief; there\u2019s no healing. You\u2019re learning to live without that loved one.\u201d \u2013 Niesia Garza

Notable Quotes:

\u201cTheir feelings are valid, but [do] not take it out on that loved one because that loved one is not doing it intentionally.\u201d \u2013 Niesia Garza

\u201cFeel your feelings, journal whatever it is, [and] don\u2019t suppress them; because the more we suppress, they\u2019re going to eventually come out one way or the other.\u201d \u2013 Niesia Garza

\u201cYou have to protect your mental health\u2026 That\u2019s okay; it\u2019s not a bad thing. [You\u2019re] grieving, and everybody grieves differently. There\u2019s no right or wrong way to grieve.\u201d \u2013 Niesia Garza

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