This is my first Thanksgiving without my father. While this time last year, we’d be ready for him to eat, watch some ball before bellowing at my mother, “Cyrena, let’s go!” And often, she wasn’t ready to leave! We always laughed about it and I’m sure we’ll be sharing some memories tomorrow. Yet, as grief has no timeline and pops up at any moment, I am preparing myself to be a little emotional but also do something to honor him.
As holidays can be a struggle for people who have experienced the death of a loved one, even if someone hasn’t faces a loss, the holidays can be a stressful time of year. Everyone is still dealing with life. We’re coming out of a post a crazy election cycle. There are concerns about the immediate future. Some people are facing toxic work environments, tension in a relationship, kids running amuck…the list goes on. But whatever is going on in your life requires close attention – and those two important words.
Self-care.
LPC of From a Strong Place, Jessica Horne, weighs in for tips on dealing with grief over the holidays and ways to take care of you.