Loz Antonenko's Story: Grief, Bereavement & Resilience—Daily Habits That Help You Start Over

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In this powerful episode, Loz Antonenko shares her journey through bereavement and grief following the suicide loss of her husband. She walks us through the fractured years of grief and the mental health struggles that went largely unseen.

Loz found her footing by building stories of resilience through so-called “handbrake habits”—simple routines around movement, hydration, rest, nourishment, and breath—that became her anchors. These small, daily acts helped her start over, rebuild trust with herself, and ultimately write Get the F*ck Unstuck, her guide to healing.

By sharing her lived experience, Loz contributes to suicide prevention, modeling how openness, support systems, and dismantling the stigma around grief can help others walk through loss—and toward hope. This episode is a raw and real conversation about surviving heartbreak and reclaiming a life worth living.

Content Warning

This podcast includes real stories of suicide loss. Some episodes may reference the method of suicide and include emotionally intense or uncomfortable descriptions. We understand how sensitive this content is, and we carefully edit each episode to honor and respect both our guests and listeners. If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org for free, 24/7 support. Please take care while listening—pause if you need to. You are not alone.

Takeaways

• What bereavement and what it means to grieve a spouse look like in real life
• Why support systems and small daily routines matter in healing
• How mental health and stigma shape the aftermath of loss
• Using “handbrake habits” as a foundation for starting over
• From grief to resilience—the making of a healing blueprint
• Sharing her story as a form of suicide prevention and hope for others

About She Diaries

In She Diaries, women who have lost their husbands to suicide bravely share their stories of strength while navigating the unimaginable journey of widowhood. Through candid interviews, the podcast explores their lives before the tragedy, moments that changed everything, the web of grief, and the hard-earned lessons of overcoming deep loss. These powerful stories shed light on the strength and courage it takes to move forward.

Produced by Bright Sky House

Mental Health Resources

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 for free, 24/7, confidential support for mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, or emotional distress.
• Find a Therapist: Search for licensed therapists near you through directories like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or Mental Health Match.
• Join a Support Group: Connect with others through peer-led or professionally facilitated support groups via NAMI or GriefShare.

Stay Connected with She Diaries

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If you have questions or would like to follow-up with any of our guests, reach out to [e-mail].

She Diaries is available wherever you listen to podcasts.