As a twin who has has lost her twin, I am hoping this blog will help other twins. The bond between twins is often described as unique and profound. Writing from my own experience, when one twin experiences grief, it has a profound impact.

Twin loss grief

Twin loss grief is a unique and devastating type of grief that can have profound emotional, psychological and physical impacts on the surviving twin. Losing a twin as a twin is difficult to comprehend for the surviving twin, as twins share a special bond. They have a unique connection that is difficult for others to fully understand.

Twin loss can lead to a range of intense emotions, including deep sadness, loneliness, guilt and anger, with the surviving twin feeling like a part of themselves is gone; and who may struggle with their identity and sense of self. They may feel a sense of survivor's guilt, questioning why they survived, while their twin did not.

Coping with twin loss

As a twin, losing a twin can also impact various aspects of the other twin's life, such as their relationships, the growing-up family dynamics and overall mental wellbeing. Coping with such a loss has to involve self-care and self-reflection; reaching out for support if needed.

The nature of twin loss

It is always important to acknowledge and validate the nature of any loss, but particularly a twin loss, as it requires a specific type of support and understanding. Each individual's experience of twin loss is personal and may differ from another, but the common thread is the profound sadness and longing for the lost twin.

Feeling sad

I feel sad, lost without my twin. Although our lives were often separate, there was still a bond between us, an invisible connection, a link. No matter our struggles and individual preferences, I still very much felt that twin bond. My twin was there, in the background and that was a constant comfort. It's not something many will understand, unless you are a twin.

Now of course I don't have that. It's not guilt I feel, but I do feel an overwhelming sadness. The prospect of growing older without her, while difficult to comprehend, is also difficult to bear, compounded by the loss.

Dedicated to all those who are a twin and who have lost their twin.