Welcome to our series Bereavement Notes where we share our thoughts and insights into the bereavement journey. This month look at how to cope with grief during the festive season.
As we move into the Christmas period, we know that this time of year can bring mixed emotions for anyone who is grieving. Grief is difficult at any time, but for many, Christmas can feel particularly challenging. Traditions, memories, and expectations may heighten feelings of sadness or highlight the absence of someone deeply missed.
To offer gentle support during the festive season, we invite you to explore our Christmas Leaflet – Bereavement at Christmas. It provides practical suggestions, reflections, and ideas that may help you navigate the weeks ahead in a way that feels right for you. Christmas does not have to be approached in any one way, what matters most is taking care of yourself and acknowledging your needs.
Over the Christmas period we are offering two additional support sessions alongside our usual programme, recognising that this season can be especially difficult. These sessions will provide a calm, understanding space to share, reflect, or simply be with others who are also navigating loss at this time of year:
The two Christmas support sessions are as follows:
- Hub on Rye Hill, 11am – 1pm on Tuesday 23rd December.
- St Michael’s Hospice, 1pm – 3pm on Tuesday 30th December.
GRoWS is a peer support group designed to help members of our community connect with others who are managing grief. The group provides a safe, compassionate space to share experiences, talk openly, and gain support from people who understand the many forms grief can take.
If you would like more information about the group, our Christmas leaflet, or any of our bereavement support services you can contact the Bereavement Office at St. Michael’s Hospice either by telephone 01424 456361 or you can email us, bereavement@stmichaelshospice.com
You are not alone, we are here to support you through this season and beyond.
