While Christmas, Easter, birthdays and celebrations are known to be occasions of happiness and joy, for a person who is grieving, the holidays can represent something completely different. Although experienced in similar circumstances, grief and mourning are very different. Grief is an internal lived experience while mourning focused on the outward expressions.
So how can we support individuals who are passing through this difficult time of mourning? We can start by showing them our support by being mindful that even though grief is universal, the experience itself is unique to each human being and there is no one way on how to feel and experience grief.
For a person who is grieving, it might be helpful to accept and experience the pain. Burying emotions will not alter what has happened nor will be feelings go away. During this time, it would be helpful to be surrounded by people who are supportive, empathic and not dismissive of feelings of grief. Speaking about the deceased to share the good memories and to keep their story alive might bring about positive feelings about the great times shared. If it feels right, share memories during a spiritual or religious celebration with your family and/or friends (Bendaña, 2017).
While some people would be mourning a deceased, others might be mourning a previous relationship. Parents, partners, and children may experience a strong yearning for the quality of their previous connection with the ill individual, as well as a sense of loss over their shattered expectations and dreams (Miller, 1996).
Remember that since many people grieve in different ways, one person’s method of grief might not be the same as the other person’s way of grieving. Grieving might also be a personal, private experience which is why finding a reliable, qualified professional might help.
Here at Iftaħ Qalbek we can help both individuals and families during this difficult time. Please don’t hesitate to contact us (via call or WhatsApp) on 77771237 or email on [email protected] for more information on how we can help you.
References:
Bendaña, A. (2017). Coping with grief during the holidays. Nursing, 47(11), 54-56. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.nurse.0000525991.36485.1b
Miller, F. E. (1996). Grief therapy for relatives of persons with serious mental illness. Psychiatric Services, 47(6), 633-637. https://doi.org/10.1176/ps.47.6.633