Why does personal growth sometimes feel like a quiet loss? Ever look back at an old photo and feel a strange mix of nostalgia and sadness for the person you once were? You're evolving, becoming stronger, wiser, but there's still a strange ache for the person you used to be. In today's episode, we explore the psychology behind this often-unspoken phenomenon of grieving our past selves.

Things we discuss:

• What it means to grieve a former 'you’
• The role of disenfranchised grief 
• The ‘nostalgia trap’
• Our evolving sense of self and the fluidity of identity
• Why we romanticise the past
• How we can integrate past versions of ourselves and embracing growth

If you've ever felt that subtle pang for a past version of yourself, this episode is for you!

Listen to Mantra: https://open.spotify.com/show/4Ckds0BoJDDpODInN9cWcc?si=b6ad5d555c1940e0 

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

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The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.