We all cope with grief in different ways, but with the holiday season quickly approaching, it can set off emotions that can be extremely difficult to deal with alone.
“For many individuals, intense grieving is often centered around those times of year — birthdays, anniversaries, holidays — when we miss our loved ones even more,” said Monica Farrar, a licensed mental health counselor and private clinician in Williamsville. “When you lose someone close to you, it’s not uncommon to lose interest in celebrating holidays and special occasions because these events magnify your loss.
“While these times may be sad, it is OK to smile and have moments of peace and even laughter. It is OK to remember and honor your love and loss, accept the reality of the situation and allow yourself to feel all emotions, including both joy and sadness.”