Dealing with Grief During Special Occasions: Strategies for Coping with Mother's Day and Father's Day

Mother's Day and Father's Day can be difficult times for those who have experienced the loss of a parent. These holidays can be a reminder of the void left behind by a loved one, and can often bring up feelings of grief and sadness. It's important to remember that these feelings are normal and valid, and there are ways to cope with grief during seasonal events like Mother's Day and Father's Day.

I yelled at a caller from a flower shop when they reminded me that my late Mother's birthday was coming up two years after her passing in 2010. It took me years and poetry writing to be able to cope and publish my books honoring her.

One way to cope with grief during these holidays is to honor the memory of your loved one. You can do this by visiting their favorite place, cooking their favorite meal, or doing an activity that they enjoyed. By remembering and celebrating their life, you can keep their memory alive and create new memories in their honor.

It's also important to reach out to others for support. Grief can be isolating, but you don't have to go through it alone. You can talk to friends or family members about how you're feeling, or consider joining a support group. Sharing your feelings and experiences with others who have gone through similar experiences can be healing and comforting.

Taking care of yourself during these times is crucial. Make sure to practice self-care by getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising. You can also take time to do things that bring you joy, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or listening to music.

If you find that your grief is overwhelming and interfering with your daily life, it may be helpful to seek professional help. A therapist can provide you with tools and coping strategies to manage your grief and move forward.

Remember that everyone experiences grief differently, and there is no right or wrong way to grieve. It's okay to feel a range of emotions, including sadness, anger, and guilt. By acknowledging and processing these feelings, you can begin to heal and find a way to move forward.

I started asking my Lighthearted Living Insiders if they wish to opt out of the emails that focus on these two events. You can ask to be removed or snooze Facebook groups for example.

I am often told that my book Sympathy: A Poem of Solace is of great comfort because it helps the grieving and those supporting them. I just heard of Ephemera, an adult graphic novel dealing with the loss of a parent. I found some useful info on coping with grief here as well.

In conclusion, Mother's Day and Father's Day can be difficult times for those who have experienced the loss of a parent. It's important to honor the memory of your loved one, reach out to others for support, practice self-care, and seek professional help if needed. Remember that grief is a normal and valid emotion, and with time and support, it's possible to find a way to move forward and find peace.

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Ps. I was inspired to write this post to be sensitive to those grieving since I will be talking so much about my Mother's Day Kickstarter. 

📷 Photo by Andrea Piacquadio