The festive season is often framed as a time of joy and celebration, but for many, it can intensify feelings of loss. We roped in Netcare Akeso’s Crisis Line Manager, Megan Gonsalves speak to help you cope with grief gently and on your own terms.
The holidays can be emotionally complex when you’re grieving. While the world around you may be celebrating, loss has a way of feeling louder during this time; bringing memories, traditions and emotions to the surface.
It's important to note that grief doesn’t operate on a timeline, and it certainly doesn’t disappear because the calendar says it’s time to celebrate. Whether your loss is recent or something you’ve been living with for years, the festive season can be a tender period that calls for compassion and care. Here, Netcare Akeso’s Crisis Line Manager, Megan Gonsalves sheds some light.
Glamour: How can individuals coping with grief find ways to honour their loved ones during the festive season?
Megan Gonsalves: There are many ways to honour your loved ones during this time, especially when you are grieving. You could continue a tradition that was meaningful to them, light a candle in their memory, create a memory ornament, which can also be a creative and therapeutic activity or make a donation in their name.
You may also choose to use this time to reflect on special memories by journaling, creating a memory book, or writing a letter to your loved one. If at any point the grief feels overwhelming, it’s important to remember that professional support is available.
Glamour: What advice would you give to someone who feels pressure to “move on” during the holidays?
Megan Gonsalves: The holidays can be particularly difficult for those who have lost a loved one. It’s often a time filled with memories, which can bring up a wide range of emotions. It’s important not to feel pressured to “move on.” Grief is a process, and it doesn’t come with a strict timeline. Acknowledge how you are feeling; whether that’s sadness, anger, relief or even moments of happiness. All of these emotions are valid. By allowing yourself to feel what you need to feel, you give yourself the space to work through those emotions in a healthy way.
Glamour: How can support groups or community resources help those struggling with grief during this time?
Megan Gonsalves: Grief can be incredibly isolating, and support groups or community resources can help reduce that sense of loneliness. By connecting with others who are going through similar experiences, you’re given a safe space to share what you’re feeling and to learn from others who understand what you’re going through. These connections can offer comfort, validation and reassurance that you are not alone in your grief.
The Netcare Akeso crisis line, available on 0861 435 787, remains operational throughout the festive season where trained counsellors are available to talk to you without judgment and can guide you through the various options for assistance.
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