HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — Family traditions usually make up part of the holiday season, but if you have recently lost someone, this time of year may not feel as special and according to Jennifer Wolff of J J Counseling services, even scrolling through social media can trigger a response to grief.
"There can be that whole sense of isolation promoted a lot of times by social media that everybody's happy and you see the beautiful pictures and the decorations," Wolff states. "The first step is accepting your emotions because it's okay."
Renee Casterline opens up about the different ways she's pushing through the holidays after her husband suddenly passed in august.
"I tried to do different things that we didn't do as a family," Casterline shares. "Like I went to the tree lighting in Newbury with some friends, things that we had not created memories with, and then we make new memories. Also, I think, surrounding myself with my family and my friends has helped tremendously."
Shaniqua Karanja, pastoral counselor at Radiate Church, adds not all situations are the same but if you have experienced a loss, there are some things you can do to help. "Maybe call a friend," Karanja states. "Check in with a couple of people so that they know that you're okay or if you need anything but don't overcommit and just be patient and kind with yourself. It's a difficult time."
She adds, "There is no predictable timetable or pattern. While you may feel it on an emotional level or in your everyday behaviors and relationships, grief also has its physical effects, which are important to note. You might recognize that you tire more easily, have trouble eating or sleeping, or seem more susceptible to headaches and other illnesses. You might even notice that you have difficulty concentrating and a low tolerance level."
"These symptoms occur because the part of the brain responsible for emotion and stress is activated during the grieving process, so normal brain functioning is interrupted. Grief can change brain chemicals and hormonal functioning, and your immune system can be compromised." Wolff urges those grieving to prioritize self-care. "Movement balance, self-care, perspective and be extremely gentle with yourself," Wolff states.
Both experts add if you put those practices in place and continue to feel overwhelmed to seek professional help. Wellstone launched an emergency helpline for those dealing with mental health emergency at 256.705.6444. The National Suicide and Crisis Hotline is 988.
