Coping with grief during the holiday season can feel overwhelming. In such a celebratory time of year, known to be spent with loved ones and filled with traditions, feelings of grief and loss can be conflicting and difficult to navigate. Understanding how grief differs for each person and having conversations about loss can help provide balance and find peace in unexpected ways.
While grief and mourning are universal responses to loss, there is no predictable timeframe or consistency to each individual’s experience. Due to its personal nature, how each individual navigates grief differs from person to person. Establishing awareness to the symptoms of grief, such as fatigue, trouble sleeping or physical aches, can help you or your loved one understand and validate the feelings.
Despite its challenging nature, there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Each person’s process is unique and important. According to Christopher Cioffi, BSW, a partial care Program Coordinator at Oaks, social support groups are important to decreasing the impact of grief on mental health.
Chris shares, “I recommend a higher level of engagement in one’s social support network during a time of loss. A social support network may consist of family members, friends, clinical staff members, or community support groups. There are a number of local community support groups that address the matter of grief and can be located through a simple Google search. Having increased social support has been shown to allow individuals to more thoroughly process the loss, as doing so becomes less overwhelming with proper support. Allowing oneself to feel the sadness associated with the loss, while also engaging in meaningful activities, like making a scrapbook or photo album of what was lost to reflect on the positive memories also seems to help many individuals to cope. Engaging in self-care activities, like meditation, participating in a favorite activity, or journaling may also be helpful.”
Oaks understands caring for a loved one with mental illness can be both physically and emotionally stressful. Speaking with a counselor or support group can help. If you or someone you love is struggling with mental health, consider speaking with a mental health professional to navigate the process. To learn more about Oaks services or schedule an appointment, call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377 or fill out a contact form.
