Coping Through the Holidays
November 21, 2018
Although it’s the most wonderful time of the year, the holidays can be a trying and emotional time for those who have lost a loved one this year. The death of a loved one is always traumatic, but the feeling of loss during the holiday season can be especially hard to face. Each person grieves in his or her own way. The purpose of this blog is to provide you with helpful tools and tips to cope through this difficult time.
This holiday season decide if you want to continue certain holiday traditions. Plan in advance so there is no confusion. Holiday traditions may cause pain, while some can honor the loved one who has passed.
If you are feeling pain and grief, do not be afraid to let those emotions flow. No one can tell you how you “should” be feeling this holiday season. Do not suppress your emotions.
Take care of yourself this holiday season! Eat well, exercise and be sure to take time for yourself including baths, naps or enjoying your favorite foods, of course in moderation. Avoid drinking too much alcohol or using other drugs to numb the pain. Be sure to give yourself time to break from the mourning with a distraction like a movie, reading a book or getting a massage. Distractions, such as these, allow you to work through your grief while giving yourself time to stop focusing on it.
If you need to talk to a professional this holiday season, be sure to consider getting support. It is important to talk about your loved one and your loss. Find an online support group or local bereavement group, speak to a healthcare professional or contact HRMC’s Community Hospice at (605) 353-6520 or email hrmchospice@huronregional.org. Information on grief through the holidays will also be available at the Tree of Memories displays located in HRMC’s hospital lobby and at Fair City Foods.
The sense of loss during the holidays can be overwhelming. HRMC encourages you to simply put one foot in front of the other this holiday season. Taking a few intentional steps can help you begin to regain a sense of order and peace. A loved one may have passed, but that does not mean you cannot celebrate that person’s life this holiday season!
Sources: American Cancer Society, Hospice Red River Valley, Hand to Hold
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