Is it normal to have regrets when a loved one dies?

Question

My mother died last week, and in the last two or three years we haven't had the best relationship.

It wasn't all bad, but it could have been better.

Is it normal to have this nagging feeling of regret, that I should have given in and tried harder to have a better relationship with her?

Answer 1

After my dad died I always felt guilty and thought of all kinds of different ways I could have been a better daughter.  My step-sister, after her dad passed away, has felt guilty for years because they were not on the best of terms.  It seems to me that it's a normal feeling just from what i've experienced.

Answer 2

Yes, it's perfectly normal.  We all feel regret or guilt about something when a loved one dies.  I'm sorry you've lost your Mother.  God bless.

Answer 3

Try not to have regrets, and blame yourself for not having the best relationship wont help you.  Write her a letter, sit down and have a conversation with her, even though she is not physically there.  It helped me. I know how your feeling.