GRIEF AND THE HOLIDAYS
The holidays are a time of joy and celebration. They are a time to gather with family and friends to share each other’s lives and
create loving memories. They are a time to bask in the anticipation of the gifts, both material and spiritual that is to come, and a
time to share in the feasts of the season.
While the holidays are a time of tremendous joy and glory for some, (ex. those who have lost a loved one) the holidays can be a time
of tremendous stress, anxiety and fear. The same memories that have warmed us throughout our lives are now triggers for painful
grief that can leave us feeling sad and lonely. Following are some tips to help those who are grieving survive the holidays:
* Expect to have pain; when it comes let it.
* Talk about your feelings and let people know you are struggling.
* Make a donation in the name of your loved one.
* Replace negative thoughts with positive ones “I will endure”.
* Include others who are grieving in your holiday plans.
* If you feel like crying, cry, let the emotions out.
* Plan a time during your holiday to remember your loved one.
* Holiday shopping can be stressful; buy gifts online or mail order.
* Create new holidays traditions that help you to celebrate the season.
* Plan for the after-holiday letdown by having loved ones around you.
Enjoying the holidays while you are grieving is not easy. Focus on making the holidays a time for gathering with loved ones and
remembering the loved ones who are gone. Work to create new memories and to incorporate your deceased loved one into the
celebrations you have. It is important to expect the holidays may be difficult and to take special care of youself.
For further Information:
Family Service Inc.
(800)589-1974/(605) 336-1974
Fsisd.org HOTLINES