San Diego Hospice Offers Tips on How to Cope with Grief and Loss During the Holidays.

SAN DIEGO -- The holidays, normally a festive time filled with friends and family gatherings, can be a stressful time for those grieving the loss of a loved one.

According to Noreen Carrington, LMFT, FT, director of the Center for Grief Care and Education at San Diego Hospice, many people who are experiencing the loss of a loved one may be feeling apprehension, anxiety, stress, and sadness, during the weeks preceding holidays and other special days. "Grief doesn't take a holiday," Carrington notes. "So it's important for those grieving a loss to focus on taking care of themselves and not get caught up in the holiday frenzy." Carrington offers some of the following coping strategies for those grieving a loss:

* Acknowledge the person who has died. Do not be afraid to say the person's name.

* Plan ahead. Everyone grieves differently and feelings may come in waves. There will be good days and bad days. Take one day at a time.

* Place a special decoration in your home in memory of your loved one.

Carrington adds, "Remember, there is no right or wrong way to approach the holidays when you are dealing with grief. Don't be afraid to make changes this year. Sometimes it can be very stressful to keep up with holiday traditions when a loved one has died. Whatever you choose to do this year may be different next year, and that's okay."

Having strong emotions at this time is normal, although sometimes it can feel overwhelming. If you find that you need to speak to someone outside the family, the Center for Grief Care and Education at San Diego Hospice offers support and services to help, in English and Spanish. Call 619-278-6480 or visit www.sdhospice.org for more information.