Helpful Advice For the Bereaved During the Holidays
The holidays can be a tough time for those who are mourning the loss of a loved one or marking the anniversary of the death of someone held dear. Don’t be afraid of this time of year. There are ways to cope with the emotions that come with the joys of the holidays and the sadness of loss. The Hospice of VNS Center for Loss and Hope have provided these few helpful bits of advice for the bereaved during the holidays.
- You don’t have to do everything you once did during the holidays. Reduce the number of activities you attend this year or make new, less difficult plans if the thought of hosting a holiday party, making cookies for colleagues at work and going to a Christmas concert is too overwhelming.
- Say “no†if you do not want to do something. Others will understand that you may not be excited about doing so much this year.
- Acknowledge your loved one in some manner. Purposely noting your loved one will help others recognize and admit the person was importance and special to you.
- Be kind to yourself after the holidays. Make plans to do something special — maybe lunch with a friend or a day trip.
- Be realistic and don’t get down on yourself. There are going to be difficult moments, hard days. That’s okay! You are allowed to be sad.
- Make lists of what you decide you are going to do, for the holidays, for work, for after the holidays, etc. This will help you stay focused.