The Ebb and Flow of Grief during Holidays

Healing for the Holidays

EricsHouse strives to educate families about the complexities of their grief and to support them regardless of race, creed, or financial ability. We offer one-on-one grief companioning, multiple support groups, and special events throughout the year so that everyone has access to support to help them heal.
People experience grief from many different life events. Mourning losses allows us to express our grief and as the holidays approach, we want to share some helpful grief awareness tips.

 

Acceptance

After a loss, celebrating the holidays is different. Acceptance gives us permission to change our normal traditions so new traditions can unfold. When we give ourselves the freedom to experience our grief, we learn that even in the most difficult of times, joy and grief can co-exist.

 

Don’t Be Hard on Yourself

Grief takes an immense toll on the body, mind, and soul. Give yourself some grace as you navigate the peaks and valleys of grief. Explore what self-care might mean for you and be sure to do only those things that give you comfort.

 

Tough Questions

Social settings might bring up questions. It is fine to honestly answer. You might simply say “Thank you for asking”. “Perhaps we can talk about it at another time” or, “Now is not a good time to talk”.

 

Make a Plan

Plan A includes things you would normally do during the holidays, but with modifications. Perhaps instead of planning a big meal, go out or rely on other family members and friends to prepare the meal. Plan B is your fall back plan — for difficult days when you are feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or triggered.

 

No Guilt

You are allowed to feel all of your feelings, set boundaries, and do what feels right to you.

 

Practice Gratitude

Try your best to feel gratitude in the simplest of ways. If you are able to remain open to happiness, happiness will find you.

 

Do Not Numb the Pain

Avoid anything that might be harmful including over-eating, over-drinking, or using substances. Commit to remaining healthy through the holidays.

 

Help Others in Need

Giving back to others can help fill your heart when you are feeling low. Perhaps helping the homeless, or supporting a family in need.

 

Rely on Your Faith

Whatever faith means to you, lean into it.

 

Share Memories

Talking about your loved one and all of the fond memories is a beautiful way to honor them.

 

On October 8th, EricsHouse hosted their 3rd annual virtual fundraiser, Hope & Healing, in honor of World Mental Health Month. Theonline live event was a huge success thanks to many of you who have generously supported our mission. EricsHouse supports families bereaved by alcohol, drugs, or suicide, and provide hope, healing, and new beginnings for those living in the aftermath of these devastating losses. We were joined by amazing speakers and contributors, including Barbara Nicholson Brown from Together AZ. Thank you to all of the supporters, donors, speakers, and special guests! If you missed our event visit youtu.be/avsjs3_MTeQ

 

If you know of anyone who could use support during the upcoming holiday season, EricsHouse is here to help. Call 855-894-5658 or visit www.ericshouse.org