The holidays can be a difficult time for some people, particularly those dealing with the loss of a loved one.
The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Ontario has offered a bereavement program. The online resource provides users with strategies to deal with grief at any time, including the holiday season.
"For those coping with grief, the holidays may be particularly painful and overwhelming," said CMHA Ontario CEO Camile Quenneville. "It's our hope that this resource will provide a source of comfort and support for those who are struggling."
The CMHA has developed the resource with its Windsor-Essex chapter, which has had adult bereavement services available since 1978.
Luciano Carlone, interim CEO of CMHA Windsor-Essex, said a clinician portal is also available.
"We're pleased to be working alongside CMHA Ontario to offer bereavement supports to other branches," said Carlone. "By providing these resources throughout the province, we’re widening our reach to communities that need it most."
The online resource includes tips on coping with various forms of loss, including grief after suicide, grief from an overdose death, and grief due to relationship changes.
There are some tips offered by the CMHA to cope with grief over the holidays.
"Name it to tame it". In naming our feelings as grief, we can begin to understand the underlying emotions it brings and address them.
You may feel obligated to attend or host holiday plans as you had before your loss. It's okay to say no.
Make your emotional and physical health a priority. It will help you maintain your energy during the holiday season.
Plan ahead. Grief can impact concentration. Use a calendar to schedule tasks and activities and remember to schedule downtime.
The online resource is available at the CMHA's official website.
