Coping with Grief on Mother’s Day
Allow yourself to feel your grief
Sometimes the anticipation of an actual event is worse than the event itself. By simply recognizing that the upcoming holiday may be difficult you are already engaging in self care.
Do things the way you want to do them
Some people prefer to stick to tradition while others change what they have done for years. It’s up to you. It’s OK to stay in. Sometimes spending the day in your pajamas is ok. Remember, the day is about you and how you feel.
Spend some time outside.
Nature can be a healing space. Some people like to plant flowers or a tree to return to year after year to memorialize their loved one.
Create boundaries with others
Be vocal about how you would like to spend the day. Choose what you want to do without feeling guilty if they don’t think it’s the “right” thing to do.
Be kind to yourself
Remember grief affects every aspect of your life. Throw out all expectations of what you should or could be doing
Reach out for support
Others want to be helpful, but don’t necessarily know how to. Asking for support from someone you trust can be an amazing act of self care.
Michelle Graff, LCSW
COPE Foundation Clinical Director
(p) 516-274-0540