Grief When You’re Not an Aveil

Mr. Meir (Donni) Silverstein, LCSW

Donni Silverstein experienced multiple losses in his life. But none of the losses were any that required him to sit shivah. Still, the pain he felt was so intense. He started doubting if he was normal. His life wasn’t affected on a daily basis by these deaths. He could have gone a year without speaking to the people who had passed away. So why was he having such a strong reaction to their deaths? 

Come listen as Donni shares how he learned that the loss of people from one’s childhood can be really painful. And even if his reaction was stronger than those of other members of his family, there was nothing wrong with him. Losing a childhood friend, even one with whom you spoke once a year, is a genuine loss.

As Donni trained to become a licensed social worker, he gained a greater understanding of how loss affects us. And with this newfound clarity, he shares his journey of loss and healing.