The holidays can be a difficult time to navigate if you’ve experienced a loss. Are you wondering how you will get through the weeks surrounding Thanksgiving and Christmas while you are grieving? When a loved one is gone, and everything has changed, there are many emotions you may be struggling with.
Ashley Hicks, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) for Hospice by RVNA, advises acknowledging that the holidays will be very different and the loss you are experiencing will be magnified. Long-held traditions may lose their meaning, so deciding which traditions to keep, change, or create may help. Think about where you want to spend the holidays and communicate with others so there is agreement about where and how you will be together. Grieving is very individual, so family members may differ on what feels right for each of them. Don’t do more than you want and allow yourself time for sorrow. Be gentle with yourself and others who are also feeling the loss. It may help to find a way to honor your loved one to keep them close in spirit. Perhaps lighting a candle, saying a prayer, sharing favorite stories or doing something you once enjoyed together will bring comfort.
The seminar is free and open to the public. RSVP to 203.438.5555, X1025 if you are interested or have questions.