Dealing with grief and loss at Christmas

The summer holiday season is just around the corner and for most people this is a joyous time for sharing gifts and sharing happy times with our loved ones.

However, for some, the holiday season can be daunting. Each year there are many people who face the holidays for the first time since experiencing the loss of a loved one.

Regardless of our age, grief can be a confusing experience. It can show itself in many different emotions and behaviours, and is experienced differently by each individual.

One support network available for people in the Greater Geelong region is Tuckers Funeral and Bereavement Service.

“We are passionate about caring for our community, and that extends beyond the funeral service,” Karen Thirlwell from Tuckers said.

“Not everyone needs additional support, but it is something that can be requested by families as needed”.

In November of each year, Tuckers extend their Bereavement Care Program to the wider community by hosting a special evening service called “Time to Remember”.

This service is aimed at helping people prepare for the Christmas period, providing a warm and inviting environment where it is ‘safe’ to express grief.

“Time to Remember” will be held on the evening of November 27 at 6.45pm (for a 7pm start) at Tuckers Highton Chapel, Barrabool Hills Centre, 4-32 Province Boulevard, Highton.

The event is free to attend, with a light supper provided. An RSVP is required for catering purposes. For more details contact Tuckers on 5221 4788.

Tips for coping with grief during the Christmas season

Acknowledge that the coming holiday season will be different, perhaps even challenging
Make plans, but keep them flexible
Discuss your plans with other family members in advance
Decide which traditions you want to keep or those you want to change
Accept that everyone grieves differently, even within the same family
Ask for help with the tasks that you find daunting
Prioritise you commitments and allow time for self-care
Acknowledge your loved one in some way. For example light a candle, hang a special decoration or raise a toast
Allow yourself time to grieve, but also allow yourself to experience times of pleasure and joy
Monitor your food and alcohol intake, it can be easy to use these for self-comfort
Donate a gift, or some of your time to a charity – honouring the memory of your loved one
Trust your own instincts to know what will be helpful for you.