Mother’s Day can be an emotional time for those who are grieving the loss of their mother, mother figure, or anyone close to them who played a significant mother role in their lives. Grief and loss can come with many emotions, including sorrow, loneliness, anger, and sometimes depression. Here are some ways that individuals coping with grief and loss can manage their emotions around the holiday.
Acknowledge Feelings
Recognize the feelings involved with grief and remind yourself that it is normal to feel this way. Take the time to acknowledge these feelings and understand that they may be more pressing on special dates and holidays.
Talk to Someone
Discussing grief and loss with a person trained in grief counseling provides a broader self-compass and an outlet for emotional expression and can provide a safe space to express emotions and develop effective coping strategies.
Honor Your Mother’s Memory
Consider doing something special to remember your mother, such as lighting a candle in their memory or dedicating a life-affirming activity in their honor. Allowing for reflection highlights the close connection still held and acknowledges the significant impact of late loved ones on our daily lives.
Be Kind to Yourself
Remember to carve self-compassionate time, be non-judgemental and remember that special days like Mother’s Day will trigger especially painful memories. Be gentle with yourself through the lows and continue investing in self-care to rechannel energies toward heartfelt healing.
Share Memories
Consider commemorating memories by recalling them, as simple reminiscences can bring significant moments to the forefront. Share a video or audio recording with loved ones, and the resulting positivity can benefit everyone involved in the grieving process.
Rember, dealing with grief during important dates can be challenging. It’s helpful to use these experiences as opportunities for personal growth. Taking a holistic approach is crucial for addressing mental health concerns. It’s important to seek professional help, practice self-care, and develop coping strategies for both good and bad times, while also focusing on reconnecting.
