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Feelings of Grief May be Magnified
During the Holidays: Hospices Offer Advice
 The
holidays are often thought of as a joyful time of the year, filled
with sights and sounds of seasonal cheer. Yet for people
struggling with the death of a family member or other loved one, the
holidays can be a difficult time.
The season may be full of reminders of the
loss in our lives. And it is not just recent losses.
During the holidays, feelings of grief can seem fresh, even if a loved
one died years ago.
A suggestion for coping with grief during
the holidays is to allow yourself permission to do what feels right
for you. At a time of year when many people feel compelled to
follow holiday traditions, letting yourself do something different can
be helpful. Some people find it comforting to be with family and
friends, emphasizing the familiar. Others may wish to avoid old
traditions and try something new.
Hospice professionals help families cope
with loss throughout the year. Hospice of the Prairie, Inc.
offers additional suggestions for coping with grief during the
holidays:
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Plan for the approaching holidays.
Recognize that the holidays might be a difficult time for you.
The stress may affect you emotionally, mentally, and physically.
This is a normal reaction. Be prepared and gentle with
yourself.
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Recognize that the holidays won't be the
same. Expecting
everything to seem the same might lead to disappointment.
Doing things a bit differently acknowledges the change in your life
but still offers continuity with the past.
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Be careful not to isolate yourself.
It's important to take quiet, reflective time for yourself
but also allow yourself the support offered from friends and family.
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The holidays may affect other family
members. Talk over your plans and share your feelings.
Respect other's choices and needs.
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Avoid additional stress.
Decide what you really want to do over the holiday season and give
yourself permission to avoid things you don't want to do.
Your local community hospice can be a
source of information to help you or a loved one cope with grief and
loss. For more information on hospice or grief and loss, call
Hospice of the Prairie at 620-227-7209.
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