Grief has an unwelcome way of sneaking up on us when we least expect it. Times of celebration such as holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions can sometimes feel bittersweet when we remember those who are no longer with us, but this isn’t to say moments of happiness still can’t exist.
Outside of the pandemic, last year saw one of the largest excess death rates being recorded in 50 years. In the UK alone, more than 650,000 deaths were registered, consequently leaving thousands of households facing the crippling effects of grief. Last year the globe was unified in bereavement as the country faced the loss of our longest-serving monarch, Her Royal Highness Queen Elizabeth II.
But with the King’s coronation in only a matter of weeks, it is likely to be a weekend of mixed emotions, especially for the immediate Windsor family. In light of this, A.W.Lymn, The Family Funeral Service shares tips and advice on how to navigate grief during times of celebration.
Plan Ahead
Anticipating difficult moments during celebrations can help you prepare and plan accordingly. Think about what specific moments or activities may trigger your grief and try to come up with a plan to cope. This could mean finding a quiet place to take a moment for yourself, asking for support from a trusted friend or family member, or simply adjusting your plans to avoid triggers.
Be prepared for mixed emotions
It’s normal to feel a range of emotions during celebrations, even when you’re grieving. Expect to feel happiness, sadness, anger, and everything in between. By acknowledging these emotions, you give yourself permission to experience them without guilt or judgment. Communicating with others around how you are feeling may also help you to feel more measured.
Set realistic expectations
Recognise that you may not have the same energy or enthusiasm for celebrations as you did before your loss. Adjust your expectations and allow yourself to participate in a way that feels manageable. It’s perfectly acceptable to scale back your involvement or change your usual traditions.
Communicate Your Needs
Let friends and family know how you’re feeling and what you need from them. Be honest about your emotions and your ability to participate in celebrations. Encourage them to share their own feelings as well, creating an open dialogue that fosters mutual understanding and support.
Create New Traditions
Creating new traditions in honour of your loved one can be a meaningful way to include them in celebrations. This could be something as simple as lighting a candle or setting a place at the table for them. Incorporating their memory into celebrations can provide a sense of comfort and keep their memory alive.
Most importantly, remember that grief is a process, it’s okay to experience ups and downs. Be patient with yourself and give yourself time to heal. Celebrations can be a difficult time, but with the right support and coping mechanisms, you can navigate your emotions and find a way to honour those that are no longer with you, while still finding moments of joy and happiness.
While experiencing grief during celebrations can be a challenging and emotional time, there are ways to navigate your emotions and find comfort. By acknowledging your emotions, planning ahead, talking to someone, creating new traditions, taking care of yourself, and remembering that grief is a process, you can still remember that person’s memory, whilst finding a way to move forward.
Sam Allcock is the CEO of PR FIRE – PR & Content Marketing Platform
Talks about #pr, #blogs, #marketing, #socialmedia, and #pressrelease
Writes for The Dial in his own time.
