In this issue :
Tips for Grieving during the Holidays Updates to BeginAgain program Ask the Grief Counselor Mindful Moment
Issue
FIVE
Winter 2020-2021
Quarterly Grief Newsletter
Program Updates
>> Video / Phone telehealth continues to be available for individual and family sessions ! Please call your local BeginAgain Counselor to set up your next appointment . Contact info listed below .
>> BeginAgain groups WILL RESUME vitually 2021 via Cisco WebEX !
>> Stay Tuned for another art event with The HUB on Canal this coming February !
The Season of Family
Tips for Grieving Families during the Holidays
The season of holidays that occur between November and January can be especially triggering and trying for grieving families . While some are experiencing their first round of surviving these special times , some are facing the ongoing challenges of missing loved ones year after year . The National Alliance for Grieving Children ( NAGC ) has introduced the idea that this season can be referred to as the “ Season of Family ,” providing an inviting opportunity to celebrate and remember those loved ones who have been important to us . We ’ ve learned in griefwork that implementating rituals or activities in honor of our loved ones can be helpful for our healing process . Below you ’ ll find a few suggestions that may be benfical for your family as you are missing these important people during this time .
Share a Silly Holiday Memory- Share a silly memory of your loved one , laugh out loud . Discuss Traditions-Are there any traditions that you want to change this holiday season , some that remain the same ? Open a discussion about family traditions and memories . Incorporating-Ask family members for ways they would like to incorporate the loved one that has died into the “ season of family .” This could mean including a portrait or belonging to be a part of the decorations , positioning an empty chair at the table , setting out their favorite coffee mug , or an array of other meaningful items . Look for ways to honor and remember your loved one as you go through the holiday season , even in your own thoughts . Memory Candles- A purchased candle that reminds you of them , or decorating a candle votive with glue and tissue paper , stickers etc . in a design that relates to them . Find a way to incorporate a family ritual ( saying their name , a prayer , a holiday memory etc ) when lighting this candle to remember your loved one . All About _____ -Place a notebook , journal , scrap book in a place that is accessible to all family members through the season . Invite family members to write , draw , paste , thoughts and memories about your loved one . Choose a special time to share the book with each other . Remember when . . . -Place a multitude of photos of your deceased loved one in a basket . Gather family members and take turns sharing photos and telling stories about your loved one .