A seminar to help people who have lost loved ones get through the holiday season is coming up in Chilliwack.
GriefShare: Surviving the Holidays is Saturday, Nov. 23 at St Paul’s Lutheran Church.
At this two-hour seminar, participants will watch a video featuring advice from people in grief who’ve faced the holidays after their loss. They’ll hear insights from Christian counsellors, pastors, and psychologists, and participants will receive a holiday survival guide with practical strategies, encouraging words, helpful exercises, Q/As, and journalling ideas for daily survival through the holiday season.
“If you’re feeling overwhelmed as this holiday season approaches, that’s very normal,” said psychologist Dr. Susan Zonnebelt-Smeenge, whose husband died. “You’re probably wondering how you’re going to handle this and are unsure of what course to take. I want to assure you that you can get through these holidays, and hopefully you can even find moments of joy.”
When people know what to expect, they won’t be rendered helpless as holiday events trigger unexpected emotions. Folks can make a point to spend time talking with people who have experienced a past loss and have already been through a holiday season without their loved one.
Another important step in surviving the holidays is to create a healthy plan for the coming season.
“Planning does help you to have a little control, even when you feel totally out of control,” Zonnebelt-Smeenge said.
A healthy plan involves making decisions in advance about traditions, meals, time spent with others, holiday decorating, gift-giving, and commitments.
What’s also helpful in facing the holidays is for people to communicate their specific concerns and needs with family and friends, Zonnebelt-Smeenge added.
People can learn more during the GriefShare: Surviving the Holidays seminar on Saturday, Nov. 23 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at St Paul’s Lutheran Church (8871 School St.).
To register or find out more, call Monica Pain at 604-404-5380 or email mpain.griefshare4@gmail.com.
For more, go to griefshare.org/ministries/212189.
