10/11/2024                                                                            
                                    
                                    
                                                                        
                                        GRIEF AND LOSS AROUND THE FESTIVE SEASON
The festive season can bring intense feelings of grief and loss whether you have lost someone recently or if they died many years ago.
There are so many reminders at this time of year; gifts in the shops, music on the radio, films on the tv, cards coming in the post, friends and family sharing their photos on social media. All constant reminders of the loss you may be experiencing.
Traditionally it may have been a time that family came together to celebrate but now you are feeling worried about the having to face the first or another year without your loved one. You may be questioning if you want to join in with family and friends, if you can hold yourself together for the sake of others when you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed, or whether you may prefer to break from tradition and do something different this year. Speaking to friends and family in advance will help them know how you are feeling and help them be sensitive to your needs and supportive during this time. 
We all experience bereavement, grief, and loss in different ways. As counsellor I have heard many times people say I should be feeling or coping better by now. Your thoughts and feelings are validated, and you will grieve at your own pace. Tears, whether happy or sad just show that you that you cared and are a way of coping. Remember to be gentle with yourself during this time.
Ferndown Psychotherapeutic Counselling offers bereavement counselling for adults in the UK either in person or by phone. If you are looking for a counsellor for yourself or a loved one, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
Tel: 07376 867769
Email: ferndown-counselling@hotmail.com
Web: www.ferndown-counselling.co.uk
Or view my professional profiles:-
https://www.bacp.co.uk/therapists/394295/stephanie-wadie/newcastle-st5
https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/stephaine-wadie?