As Christmas approaches, Irish Hospice Foundation is reminding people to take care of themselves and those around them who may have been recently bereaved, as well as those who continue to feel the absence of loved ones at this time of year. Simple gestures like checking in, offering practical help, or gently acknowledging their loss, can make a meaningful difference.
Irish Hospice Foundation’s Bereavement Support Line (1800 80 70 77 ) offers a confidential space to talk to a trained volunteer. The Bereavement Support Line is open from 10am to 1pm Monday to Friday.
Irish Hospice Foundation has provided ways to help individuals and families navigate grief during the festive period.
Plan ahead. Acknowledge that Christmas will now be different and that while you may choose to keep some traditions, other may have to be changed or dropped altogether. Ask yourself which traditions are important to you and what you can reasonably cope with this year.
Keep things simple. Think about what is meaningful and realistic for you and discuss this with other family members. You might decide against an elaborate dinner or putting up decorations, for example.
Begin new traditions. Some people begin traditions, such as visiting the grave on Christmas Eve, lighting a candle, or remembering the person in a toast.
Let the people around you know if you are comfortable talking about the person who died. If you don’t mention their name, others may assume you don’t want them to mention it either.
Accept offers of help, both practical and emotional. Those who love you just want to support you in whatever way they can. But you might also have to let them know what you need (eg, walking the dog, minding the kids or putting the bins out ).
Plan some quiet time for yourself. Grieving is tiring and energy sapping. When you can, lie down or take a short walk. If you accept invitations, give yourself the option of changing your mind or leaving early if you need to.
If there are children in the family, try to include them in the planning. Ask them for their ideas on how to spend the day. Young children may also need reassurance that Santa is still coming and to know that it’s OK to enjoy Christmas even if people are sad.
“Christmas can intensify the pain of loss," said Orla Keegan, head of bereavement at Irish Hospice Foundation. "The contrast between personal grief and the world’s celebratory atmosphere may feel overwhelming. It’s important to remember there’s no one right way to grieve, and so try to be kind and patient with yourself. Irish Hospice Foundation is here to support everyone through our Bereavement Support Line. We also encourage people to reach out and talk to each other. Talking to someone always helps.”
For more information and resources on coping with grief, including guidance for families and children, visit hospicefoundation.ie or bereaved.ie
