Christmas can be a very difficult and emotional time for Children, Young People and Families when someone important has died. Whether the bereavement is recent or some years ago, it is a time when families come together in celebration but may also struggle with feelings of sadness, loneliness, anger and guilt.
How can we help each other?
Here are some recommendations from our team of specialist bereavement counsellors, which bereaved families can follow in preparation for the festive season, so you are ready for when it comes and are able to care and support each other over this potentially difficult time.
- Acknowledge All feelings are important and need to be recognised, and everyone within the family will grieve differently.
- Share Please talk together as a family about Christmas, talk about how you individually feel and how as a family you can care and support each other over the festive period.
- Remember Take time to remember your loved one in some way. Light a candle, make a decoration for the Christmas tree, visit a special place in memory of your loved one, or perhaps make their favourite food. You can also create a special memorial, either physical or online. Remember and celebrate their life and the love that you shared.
- Try to find balance Explain to your children that looking forward to Christmas is normal and it’s okay to have fun and be happy and it’s also okay to be a little sad too.
- Take care of yourself Self-care is important. It’s okay to give yourself a little time and space if the day becomes overwhelming for you. Perhaps make a quiet space which family members can use if they need to.
If you are really struggling, please remember the Christmas period will pass, do whatever you need to do to take care and support each other over this challenging time.
Edward’s Trust ‘Light Up A Life’ dedication page
Every year, Edward’s Trust sets up our ‘Light Up A Life’ dedication page, where you can make an online dedication to your loved by posting a photo and a memory.
The donation you make as part of your dedication helps Edward’s Trust continue to offer free counselling, wellbeing therapies and support groups, ensuring that other bereaved families in need can find comfort, guidance and a way forward.
