Loading...

Grief Dealing with Special Days and Holidays

Grief Support Programs in Middletown, NJ

Grief is inevitable following the loss of a loved one. As time heals the heart, days become more manageable. However, this progress is often hindered by a heightened sense of loss and mourning triggered by once-cherished holidays and special occasions. To navigate the difficult holidays, John F. Pfleger Funeral Home can help provide access to grief support in Middletown, NJ. 

 

Grief Support Programs in Middletown, NJ

 

The Reality of Navigating Grief

Grief does not offer set timelines. It is everlasting. The feeling of debilitating loss and profound mourning will subside with time, but the longing for the person you lost will never disappear entirely. Even those who have come to terms with their loss face challenges, especially during celebratory moments, holidays, and special occasions. 

 

The Challenges of Coping with Grief on Special Occasions

Holiday grief is challenging. You may feel fine one day, and the next, you're suddenly experiencing an overwhelming sense of sadness that you don't quite understand. Grief is exacerbated by memories and emotions, making holidays and celebratory occasions painful reminders of special times once shared with your loved one. 

 

Acknowledging & Managing Grief

Holiday grief can trigger feelings of guilt for enjoying moments without your loved one. Being without them may also cause you to refrain from traditions or engagements. No matter the case, overcoming these emotions requires acknowledging grief as an opportunity to reclaim control and peace of mind while still commemorating your loved one.

 

Holiday Grief Coping Strategies

There is no right way to navigate grief. The only way out is through. Recognize and validate your feelings, lean into emotions, and discover how to observe special occasions in a way that feels comfortable for you. Our grief support specialists have provided some effective holiday grief coping strategies to get you on track.

 

Setting Realistic Expectations for Yourself

There is no telling how you may feel when the holiday or festivity you’ve been dreading arrives. As grief cannot be gauged or controlled, it’s important to set realistic expectations based on the knowledge that emotions may fluctuate. Establish and communicate your boundaries and allow yourself to say no if something feels too triggering.  

 

Prioritize Simplicity 

Sending Christmas cards, baking treats, and hosting expansive holiday parties are increasingly trying when navigating the complexities of grief. To eliminate unnecessary stress while you work through new emotions, prioritize simplicity. Do not feel obligated to satisfy what was formerly expected; instead, relax and leave space and time to process how you're feeling. 

 

Modify or Create New Traditions 

Holiday traditions can be a painful reminder of loss. Recognize that it's okay to step away from these rituals and habits, whether momentarily or indefinitely. To adapt to life after loss, you may also consider modifying your traditions to include a meaningful tribute to honor your loved one. 

 

Seek Holiday Grief Support 

Don’t let pride hold you back from seeking grief support. Grief support may be as simple as reaching out to a friend or family member to explore your feelings or share cherished memories of your loved one. You may also consider grief support programs to engage with professionals and individuals experiencing similar grief challenges. 

 

Honoring Your Loved One 

Even though they cannot celebrate alongside you, there are plenty of ways to honor your loved one’s life during the holidays. To incorporate their memory into special occasions, we recommend:

·         Light a candle in their honor

·         Share stories with loved ones to uphold their memory

·         Visit their memorial site 

·         Make a charitable donation in their name

 

Open Communication & Boundaries

Grief can be incredibly isolating. Many people withdraw from social engagements to avoid uncomfortable discussions and triggering comments or gestures. However, this is no way to live. To protect your peace, prioritize open communication and express your boundaries with family and friends to help them understand how to best support you through your grief journey.

 

How to Handle Well-Meaning Yet Triggering Comments & Gestures

Family and friends may make well-meaning comments or gestures to ease the tension surrounding the loss. Unfortunately, this may only trigger worsening grief. When this occurs, remind yourself that your healing is the priority. Kindly vocalize your discomfort and let those around you know when their actions or words are upsetting or unhelpful.

 

Self-Care During Special Occasions 

To mitigate worsening sadness, give yourself permission to step back and take breaks as needed. Prioritize self-care to keep your mind and body healthy. Get enough sleep and allot ample time to acknowledge and feel your emotions without sacrificing enjoyment and activities that provide you with a sense of normalcy and connection.

 

Work With a Holiday Grief Support Specialist

At John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, we recognize the challenges of the special occasion following the loss of a friend or family member. Serving as a source of comfort and understanding, we extend compassionate support to individuals at every stage of their grief journey with our ability to help access personalized grief support programs in Middletown, NJ.

 

Discover the Benefits of Grief Support Groups

Embrace experienced guidance and compassionate support with John F. Pfleger Funeral Home. If you’re ready to explore the possibilities of planning a grief support service for your friends and family, we’re here to accommodate you. To learn more about the benefits of our grief support groups, contact us today.

John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Inc.

After losing a loved one, you can trust the funeral directors at John F. Pfleger Funeral Home to help you celebrate your loved one’s life. Our staff has experience planning a variety of funeral services and can assist your family in honoring your loved one no matter your personal preference, budget, culture, or religion. We pride ourselves on serving the Middletown community & surrounding Bayshore areas with compassion, dignity, & respect.

Contact Us

© John F. Pfleger Funeral Home, Inc.
Supported by SRS Computing

 

Privacy Policy & Terms of Use | Accessibility