COPE Healing Tip May 2018

Apr 30, 2018 | Healing Tip

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