December 3, 2024: Grief at the Holidays

Grieving the loss of a loved one is one of the hardest things you will ever do.  Grieving takes on an additional burden during the holiday season, as well as on other "trigger dates"--birthdays, anniversaries, death days, etc.  Today, co-hosts Two and Barbara, talk about the grief journey.

We all lose loved ones to death; our grief journeys are our own, but we all need support.  I (Barbara) lost my partner to death nearly four years ago, and, thanks to Hospice Savannah, had individual and group support, and continue to attend their Spouse/Partner Loss Grief Group.  I learned that while there are stages of grief--denial, anger, bargaining, depression, acceptance--they are not linear, but a roller coaster ride of emotions; and acceptance should more appropriately be called management of grief.  I learned I am not crazy when my denial, anger or depression show up after four years.  Two also spoke of the loss of his mother and his roller coaster journey.

I used notes from a "Grief at the Holidays" program Hospice Savannah hosted a few years ago to discuss the grief journey and strategies for getting through the upcoming holidays and trigger days ahead for you.  As you listen to this recording, I hope you find them helpful.  

Remember grief is universal and you are not alone.  And you are not crazy.