State of the Heart Hospice Offers Tips For the Holidays Ahead

Marlene Black

The Christmas holidays are a joyous time for most of us. However, for those who have lost a loved one and are grieving over that loss, the holidays can be difficult. State of the Heart Hospice Bereavement Specialist Marlene Black said there are ways to observe the holidays, remembering loved ones and getting enjoyment out of the holiday. She offers the following tips:

• Talk about your grief and don’t be afraid to express your feelings about your loss.
• Be with supportive, comforting people who will allow you to talk openly about your feelings.
• Be tolerant and aware of your physical or psychological limits. Be mindful of what your body is telling you and consider lowering your expectations.
• Don’t be reluctant to mention the name of the person who has died and whom you are remembering. Embrace your treasures of memories by sharing your memories with family and friends.
• Do what is right for you during the holidays. Discuss your wishes with friends and family and clarify exactly what you want to do.
• Express your faith. Associate with people who understand and respect your need to talk about your beliefs.

Black also offered other ideas to help celebrate the holidays while remembering a loved one. “Make a donation to a charity that your loved one supported,” she said. “Perhaps you might want to donate flowers to your church in memory of your loved one. Serve your loved one’s favorite food, recalling how much they enjoyed it.”

She added, “It is important that you realize and acknowledge you miss that special someone. Not acknowledging your loss and not talking about it can make the holidays more stressful.”

State of the Heart Hospice serves patients and families in eastern Indiana and western Ohio and has offices in Greenville, Portland and Coldwater. An important part of the care provided by the not-for-profit agency is bereavement support. Grief support is offered to not only patient families, but to anyone in the community who is grieving the loss of someone they loved. There are group sessions for adults and for children and teens.

To find out more about bereavement services offered by State of the Heart, call Marlene Black at 1-800-417-7535. Visit the agency web site at www.stateoftheheartcare.org.