Whether it has been one year or ten years after the death of a loved one, the anniversary of the date of their death weighs heavy on our hearts and minds. On the actual date, or the days leading up to or following it, it’s common to experience feelings of grief.
There is no timeline on how you grieve or how long you should grieve, it varies from person to person. For some, it is a painful reminder of what they have lost. Others have discovered how to incorporate the memories into their daily lives. The thing about grief is that it is ongoing and you never fully move on; you learn to accept that your life has changed forever.
If you feel anxious or depressed (or any other array of emotions) as the anniversary of the death of a loved one approaches, here are some suggestions to help you cope and heal:
Cherish the memories. It’s important to schedule memory time - whether it be an hour, an evening or full day - to remember your loved one. How you spend this time is also up to you. Some prefer to be alone with their memories and have a good cry. Others prefer to be in the company of friends and/or family members sharing stories and having a laugh. Still others may partake in an activity that reminds them of their loved one, such as taking a hike or watching a movie. By focusing on and honoring the positive memories, you feel a connection to your loved one while helping to ease your pain in the process.
Create a diversion. For some coping means getting away from your own thoughts or memories for an hour or two. Meeting a friend for lunch or taking a hike in the woods can help you escape for a bit. Immersing yourself in a hobby or chores around the house can give you a sense of accomplishment.
Traditions - old and new. On the anniversary date, it’s common to recall family traditions such as Thanksgiving at Grandma's house or summers at the lake, and then realize that your loved one will no longer be a part of these gatherings. However, you can honor your loved one’s memory by starting new traditions. If you loved one enjoyed giving back to the community, volunteer for a cause or charity that meant a lot to him or her. Buy a bouquet of his or her favorite flowers on the anniversary date. Not only will this help put positive associations with the anniversary of the death, but he or she will also comfort knowing you are keeping their memory alive.
Be kind. Grief is a difficult thing, and it's okay to allow yourself to feel all the emotions (good and bad) associated with it. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. However you choose to cope, do it because it feels right to you.
Adolf Funeral Home & Cremation Services provides the service expertise, guidance, and understanding that is needed during one of the most difficult and emotional times in an individual’s life. It is our commitment to respect a family’s choice regarding arrangement services and help coordinate a meaningful tribute to someone’s life.
To learn more about how we can serve your needs, please visit our website or call one of our locations today.
Sources
No comments:
Post a Comment