Ga. Mountains Hospice offers Grief Support through the Holidays
By GWEN BRIDGES Bereavement Coordinator

The holidays are often a difficult time for those who are bereaved and coping with the death of a loved one. A common question asked by those mourning a loved one is, "How can I get through the holidays?" There is no single answer of what one should or should not do. However, here are a few suggestions that may bring comfort during the celebration times.

* Plan for the approaching holidays. Holidays intensify grief so think through what you want to do and what you do not want to do. What is comfortable for you?

* Set limits for yourself. Look to simplify rather that overwhelm yourself. Do only as much as you can manage emotionally and physically.

* Share your feelings. Talk with your friends and families and let them know what you are thinking and feeling as you begin planning your holidays.

* Resist isolation. It is okay to take time for yourself, but don't cut yourself off from the support of family and friends. The love and the enjoyment of being with those who love you can nourish and aid you in healing.

* Consider traditions. Would you be more comfortable repeating your traditions or would you be more comfortable creating new rituals? There is no right or wrong in what you choose to do. What would you be most comfortable doing?

The bottom line of surviving the holidays well is to only do what you find to be comfortable for you. You might consider making a "Celebration Covenant" with yourself which says: "I promise myself, I will only do what is comfortable for me." Write this down on a card. Then sign and date this covenant. When you begin making your plans and someone suggests that "you should" or "you ought to" do something that you don't want to do. Refer to your celebration covenant and be reminded of your promise to only do what is comfortable.

Georgia Mountains Hospice is a non-profit agency that specializes in the care of terminally ill patients in their own home or the nursing home. Please contact Georgia Mountains Hospice with any questions regarding services or the availability of grief support groups in your area.