Melissa Noyce Melissa Noyce

I’m Not Here to Convince You – Understanding Your Relationship with Your Absent Father

When it comes to an absent father, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. I’m not here to convince you to have a relationship with him—or not to—but to help you understand how his absence affects your life today. Whether you’re considering reconnecting, accepting that the relationship won’t go further, or choosing to walk away, this blog explores how to find peace and make empowered choices that honour you.

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Loneliness, Boundaries, Abandonment, Absent Father Melissa Noyce Loneliness, Boundaries, Abandonment, Absent Father Melissa Noyce

Loneliness & Abandonment: When No One Understands Your Grief

Abandonment grief is a lonely kind of pain—the kind that people don’t understand, the kind that leaves you feeling invisible. Whether it’s being left out of family events, receiving dead-end responses, or realising you don’t hold the same place in others’ lives as they do in yours, the loneliness can be overwhelming. This blog explores the hidden truths of abandonment, the search for belonging, and how to find peace within yourself instead of always looking outward for validation.

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Abandonment, Absent Father, Boundaries Melissa Noyce Abandonment, Absent Father, Boundaries Melissa Noyce

How to Handle an Absent Father: Setting Boundaries and Finding Peace

Handling an absent father isn’t always straightforward - especially when he suddenly reaches out, turns up unexpectedly, or leaves you questioning your boundaries. I know the temptation to reconnect, the doubt that creeps in, and the emotional toll of unexpected encounters. This blog explores the reality of navigating these moments, from recognising manipulation to honouring your own peace. Plus, download my free guide for practical responses to help you feel more confident in handling these difficult situations.

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Abandonment Melissa Noyce Abandonment Melissa Noyce

Moving Beyond the Victim Role: Understanding the Impact of an Absent Father on Relationships

Having an absent father can deeply shape your relationships, often leading to feelings of anger, sadness, or a need for validation. This blog explores how these emotions might pull you into the victim role, impacting your connections with others. Learn how to honour your pain, recognise patterns, and create healthier, more balanced relationships through empathy, self-awareness, and mutual understanding.

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Abandonment, Grief Melissa Noyce Abandonment, Grief Melissa Noyce

Why Therapy Feels So Scary: Understanding the Fear and Knowing You’re Not Alone

Therapy can feel terrifying, especially when years of emotions are bottled up. You might find yourself quietly exploring the idea - reading posts, watching from the sidelines - without taking the leap. And that’s okay. Just knowing support is there when you’re ready is enough. This blog post explores why therapy feels so daunting and the courage it takes to start.

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Abandonment, Grief Melissa Noyce Abandonment, Grief Melissa Noyce

Starting a New Year Without Leaving It All Behind: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Future

A new year can feel bittersweet when you’re coping with an absent father or grieving a loved one. Social media may push a ‘new year, new me’ message, but you don’t have to erase your past or set grand resolutions. This blog explores how to acknowledge pain without leaving precious memories behind - because healing doesn’t follow a calendar date, and simply honouring your feelings is enough.

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Abandonment Melissa Noyce Abandonment Melissa Noyce

Finding the Middle Ground: Setting Realistic Boundaries When You Have an Absent Father

Struggling with the emotional toll of having an absent father? You’re not alone. This post explores how to break free from the extremes - overcompensating or shutting down - and find a healthier middle ground. Discover practical strategies for setting realistic boundaries that honour your feelings, protect your energy and help navigate complex family dynamics with more ease.

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Grief Melissa Noyce Grief Melissa Noyce

Normalising Feeling Relieved When Someone Dies: It’s Okay to Feel This Way

Grief is complex, and feeling relief after someone dies - whether due to the end of their suffering or the closure of a difficult relationship - is a natural and valid response. This blog explores why relief is a common part of grief, including when dealing with the death of an absent father, and offers guidance on navigating these emotions with compassion.

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Grief, Abandonment Melissa Noyce Grief, Abandonment Melissa Noyce

Understanding Disenfranchised Grief: Navigating Unrecognised Loss

Disenfranchised grief is a form of loss that society often overlooks or invalidates. This type of grief can occur after losses that aren’t typically acknowledged, such as being estranged from your family, the death of a pet or a miscarriage. In this post, we explore the nature of disenfranchised grief, it’s impact on emotional wellbeing and how to find support.

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