Hello! We've made it to the holidays. Which for some people is exciting, and for others is a reminder of not being able to celebrate with those whom are no longer with us. I wanted to provide a couple perspectives of how to manage grief during the holidays, but also any other time of the year.

I love these images (I cannot take credit for them, however) because they so simply describe what it is like to experience grief. And as someone pointed out to me recently, sometimes there are multiple "buttons".

I also love this description because it allows me to identify when I am having a "button being hit" kind-of-day and then I can also let others know so they can support me.

I also appreciate ideas this article talks about to help manage feelings of grief so we aren't just avoiding them. The ideas include:

1. Feel your feelings- notice when you are having a moment and let that moment happen
2. Plan ahead- be aware of things that might be more difficult and figure out ways to get support through that event

3. Learn to say no (boundaries!)- if something feels like a burden, say no. There is no sense in burdening yourself when you have other things that are more important going on.

4. Put your physical body first- remember to eat, drink water, and try and get good sleep. Without these things, depression and anxiety will certainly appear.

5. Get support- friends, family, an exercise class, support groups, community center activities- support can come in all different forms

6. Take action- think of something that will help and then do it! If that means taking time each day to allow a few minutes to think about your loved one, or setting a place at the table for them. Do things that help honor your loved one.

I hope your holidays have some moments of contentment and cheer.

Thanks for reading and being in connection with me,

Steph