When you’re grieving the death of a family member or friend, you may dread the holiday season. Thoughts of social gatherings, family traditions and obligations leave you anxious and overwhelmed. Your sadness can seem unbearable. What can you do to lessen your stress and loneliness?
Holidays trigger tough emotions
You can start by learning what emotions are normal and to be expected when facing the holidays without your loved one. “If you’re feeling overwhelmed as this holiday season approaches, that’s very normal,” advised psychologist Dr. Susan Zonnebelt-Smeenge, whose husband died.
When you know what to expect, you won’t be rendered helpless as holiday events trigger unexpected emotions. Make a point to spend time talking with people who have experienced a past loss and have already been through a holiday season without their loved one. They can help you have an idea of typical emotions and emotional triggers to expect. These people can also provide much-needed comfort and support.
“Surviving the Holidays” seminar on Tuesday, Nov. 17 or Sunday, Nov. 22
A GriefShare Surviving the Holidays seminar will be held Tuesday, Nov. 17 or Sunday, Nov. 23 at Canton Mennonite Church. The Tuesday seminar begins at 6:30 PM and the Sunday seminar begins at 2:00 in the afternoon. “Surviving the Holidays” seminar offers practical, actionable strategies for making it through the holiday season. At this two-hour seminar, you’ll view a video featuring advice from people in grief who have faced the holidays after their loss. You’ll receive a Holiday Survival Guide with encouraging readings and tips to manage the holiday season during this difficult time.
At GriefShare Surviving the Holidays, you’ll meet with other grieving people who have an understanding of what you’re going through. They won’t judge you or force you to share, but will accept you where you are and offer comfort and support. “When I went to GriefShare,” said Marion, “I realized there are different ways to grieve.”
Your holiday season won’t be easy; your emotions may ambush you and suck you under at times. But you can choose to walk through this season in a way that honors your loved one and puts you on the path of health and healing.
To find out more about GriefShare Surviving the Holidays, call Judy Hess at (570) 673-4298 or email hlhess@frontiernet.net. We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to help you through this difficult time.