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Transforming Grief: Aditi Loveridge on Healing, Support, and the Microdose™ Method

October 7, 2024

Aditi Loveridge’s journey is one of profound transformation and purpose. After experiencing the deep grief of pregnancy loss, she recognized a critical gap in support for those facing similar hardships. This realization led her to create the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Centre (PILSC), a safe and compassionate space for individuals and families to navigate their grief. Aditi’s work is not only a testament to resilience but also a powerful reminder that healing doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Through her innovative Microdose™ method, she helps people approach their grief in small, manageable doses, empowering them to heal at their own pace.

1. Can you share a bit about your personal journey and how it led you to create the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Centre?

My personal journey through pregnancy loss before the birth of my living child was an experience that profoundly impacted me. The grief and isolation I felt during that time were overwhelming, and I realized that there was a significant lack of support for those enduring such a devastating experience. This realization sparked a deep sense of purpose within me. I knew that something needed to change—that there had to be a space where individuals and families could find the support, understanding, and community they so desperately needed.

Driven by this conviction, I created the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Support Centre (PILSC) to provide a compassionate and safe space for those navigating the lifelong journey of pregnancy and infant loss. My hope was to build a community where people could connect, share their stories, and find the support that I once longed for. PILSC is more than just a support center; it’s a testament to the resilience and strength of those who have faced such profound loss. My own experience has shaped every aspect of our organization, and it continues to fuel my commitment to ensuring that no one has to navigate this journey alone.

2. What inspired you to develop the Microdose method for grief processing?

The inspiration for developing the Microdose™ method for grief processing came from my own deep and multifaceted experience with loss, as well as the realization that traditional methods of grief support often fell short in truly meeting people’s needs. My journey navigating the profound losses in my life, including pregnancy loss, the pain of divorce, the gradual decline in my parents’ health, and the anticipatory grief that comes with watching them age, taught me that grief is not something that fits neatly into a predefined timeline or process. It’s complex, layered, and incredibly personal.

Through my work, I’ve had the privilege of supporting thousands of people personally through my coaching and the students I have certified in grief and loss support. From these interactions, I noticed a common thread: grief can feel overwhelming, as if the pain and emotions are too much to bear all at once, leading many to feel stuck or numb. This is where the idea of “microdosing” grief came into play. Just like microdosing in other contexts means taking a small, manageable amount to avoid overwhelm, I realized that approaching grief in small, intentional doses could help individuals process their emotions in a more sustainable way.

The Microdose™ method was born out of this understanding. It’s about giving ourselves permission to engage with our grief in smaller, more digestible pieces, rather than trying to tackle everything at once. It recognizes that grief is not a one-time event but an ongoing experience that can be revisited and worked through over time. By allowing ourselves to process grief in microdoses, we can honor our pain and begin to heal without feeling drowned by the weight of it all.

My hope is that this method empowers individuals to take steps towards healing, one microdose at a time, and to find peace and resilience amidst their grief.

3. What are some common misconceptions about grief that you’ve encountered, and how does your work address them?

One of the most common misconceptions about grief is that it follows a linear path with a clear beginning and end. Many people believe that after a certain period, those who are grieving should “move on” or “get over it.” However, grief is not a process with a set timeline; it’s a lifelong journey that ebbs and flows, varying greatly from person to person. In my work, I emphasize that grief doesn’t have an expiration date, and it’s okay to continue feeling and expressing that grief long after a loss.

Another misconception is that grief only manifests as sadness. In reality, grief can involve a wide range of emotions, including anger, guilt, anxiety, and even relief. It’s a complex experience that can affect every aspect of a person’s life, including their physical health, relationships, and sense of self. My work addresses this by creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore and express all of these emotions without judgment, providing resources that acknowledge the full spectrum of grief.

Additionally, a common misconception is that grief is experienced only after a death. In reality, grief can be felt in many situations, such as after a significant life change, loss of a relationship, or even during a period of intense personal transformation. My work recognizes that grief is not limited to death/dying and provides support for those experiencing grief in all its forms.

By addressing these misconceptions, my work aims to create a deeper understanding of grief and provide comprehensive support, helping those who are grieving to find peace and resilience in their own time and way.

4. How do you manage the emotional and mental demands of working in such a sensitive field?

Managing the emotional and mental demands of working in such a sensitive field can be really challenging, but I’ve found a few strategies that help me stay grounded. First, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries. It’s easy to get emotionally invested in every story, but I remind myself that I can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking time for myself—whether that’s going for a walk, spending time with loved ones, or just relaxing with a good book—helps me recharge.

Another thing that’s been essential is leaning on my support system. I’m fortunate to have a network of friends, family, and colleagues who understand the work I do. Talking things out with them when I need to vent or decompress makes a huge difference. Sometimes, just knowing that I’m not alone in this journey is incredibly comforting.

I also incorporate spiritual practices into my routine. Whether it’s meditation, prayer, or simply spending time in reflection, these practices help me stay centered and find inner peace amidst the emotional demands of my work.

I make it a point to celebrate the small wins too. It’s easy to focus on the heavy stuff, but taking time to acknowledge the positive impact of the work—like hearing how someone felt supported or seeing the community grow—helps keep me motivated.

Finally, I’ve come to accept that it’s okay to feel the weight of this work sometimes. It’s a sign that I care deeply about what I do, and that’s not something I ever want to lose.

5. Can you share an example of feedback or a story from someone who has benefited from your services?

“Enrolling in the coaching certification program at Seeds of Growth was a life-changing experience for me, both personally and professionally. As someone who has been drawn to grief and loss work due to my own personal experiences, I was looking for a program that was not only comprehensive but also deeply compassionate and grounded in real-life application. The Microdose™ method that Aditi introduced us to was nothing short of transformative.

Before this program, I often found myself overwhelmed by the intensity of my clients’ grief. I wanted to support them effectively, but it sometimes felt like too much to handle all at once. Learning about the Microdose™ method completely changed my approach. It taught me the importance of allowing my clients to engage with their grief in manageable, intentional doses. This approach has not only made my sessions more effective but has also empowered my clients to feel more in control of their healing journey.

I vividly remember working with one client who had lost her partner unexpectedly. She was struggling with overwhelming waves of grief that made it difficult for her to function day-to-day. Using the Microdose™ method, I helped her break down her grief into smaller, more manageable pieces, focusing on one aspect at a time. The change was remarkable. She began to find moments of peace and clarity amidst the pain, and over time, she was able to move through her grief in a way that felt less overwhelming.

The Microdose™ method provided the framework I needed to support my clients more effectively, and it has become an integral part of my practice. I am deeply grateful for the tools and knowledge I gained from the Seeds of Growth program. Aditi’s passion, expertise, and personal insights into grief have not only enhanced my professional skills but have also provided me with a new way to approach my own experiences with loss. I feel more confident, more compassionate, and more capable as a grief and loss coach, thanks to this incredible program.”

IG and Threads: @aditiloveridge

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