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Coping with grief at difficult times of year

A civic guest tying a pale blue remembrance ribbon to the branch of a memorial tree.

Birthdays, anniversaries, and seasonal holidays can bring grief to the surface. Some gentle, practical thoughts from families who have been there.

Certain dates in the year can feel harder than others. Birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas, and the change in seasons can all bring memories and emotions to the surface, sometimes when least expected.

There is no right or wrong way to navigate these days. Some families find it helps to plan something small in advance — a walk, a quiet moment, a meal with people who understand. Others prefer to take the day as it comes, without any plan at all. Both are completely valid.

It can also help to let the people close to you know that a particular date is difficult. You do not have to explain everything; simply saying “this day is hard for me” can be enough to allow for the space you need.

If you are finding a particular time of year overwhelming, you do not have to face it alone. Life After is here to listen, whether you want ongoing support or simply someone to talk to in the days beforehand.

Posted by Life After

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