Coping With Grief During The Holidays
December 1, 2007
(HealthNewsDigest.com)-The hustle and bustle of the holidays can be overwhelming
for everyone. For those coping with the loss of a loved one, the thought of
gathering with family and friends to share the happiness and joy of the season
can make the holidays seem even more daunting.
Even if the loss is not recent, feeling grief at this time of year is normal.
There are things that can be done to help ease the pain that some may feel
during the holidays. The National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) offers
the following suggestions to help the bereaved cope with their loss:
Don't Avoid Celebrating The Holidays
While you may not feel up to celebrating the holidays in the same way, you
cannot avoid the season entirely. While you may be in pain, do not cut yourself
off from family and friends. Celebrating the holidays, even in small ways, is a
way of facing your grief and moving on.
Acknowledge That Things Will Be Different This Year
Well-meaning family or friends may want to help you by carrying on as they
always have. It's important to recognize that, while celebrations will still go
on, family gatherings will not be the same as they once were.
Cherish Your Memories
Talking about your loved one and sharing the memories of holidays past can help
ease one's pain. Think about participating in memorial services held during the
holidays at your place of worship or family funeral home.
Do Something Special To Honor Your Loved One
Doing something to pay tribute to your loved one is a way to recognize his or
her importance in your life. Consider placing a candle in a special area of your
home. If you live within driving distance of the cemetery, decorate the grave
site with a holiday theme--special flowers, evergreen branches, pinecones or
other religious symbols. Think about taking the money you might have spent on a
gift for your loved one and donate it to a charity in your loved one's name.
Express Your Grief
While you may have stopped crying weeks or months ago, if you feel an urge to
cry, let the tears flow. It will be therapeutic and offer a release.
Take Care Of Your Health
Don't forget to eat balanced, nutritious meals. Do not overindulge in alcohol.
Get enough sleep. Find an exercise to enjoy (walking, running, aerobics) and do
it regularly. If you don't feel well, see your physician.
Don't Forget About The Children
The young people in your family may also be feeling overwhelmed by grief during
the holidays. Be there for them. Encourage them to share what they're feeling
and to share their special holiday memories.
While the days and weeks to come may be difficult, you will get through them.
For additional information about coping with grief, visit www.nfda.org
or contact your local NFDA funeral director about aftercare programs.
Celebrating the holidays, even in small ways, is a way of facing your grief and
moving on.
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