Just last week the media outlets were overtaken by the tragedy in Connecticut. But as things go in the fast paced world of media coverage, new stories overtake the spotlight and the children and adult children who were killed fade into the distance of popular memory. But for the bereaved parents of Newtown, they are reliving the horror each waking moment. Their children have not and will not fade.
When I learned of the tragedy I was devastated. My heart was overcome with agony and shock on behalf of the bereaved parents in Newtown. As we prepare to celebrate the holidays with family and friends the parents and family of the victims again come to mind. For these and all bereaved parents, the holidays can be as challenging as they are celebrated. We feel grief. We think of and miss our children. The following is an excerpt of tips for healthy coping during the holidays from When Your Child Dies: Tools for Mending Parents’ Broken Hearts.
- Keep things as simple as possible.
- Allow yourself to talk about your grief and your child.
- Consider the needs of the family and make decisions as a group.
- Find ways to create special tribute to your child.
- Skip the holiday traditions and gatherings if you want to.
- Make sure to take time to be alone if you need it.
- Give yourself permission to have fun.
- Share stories and reminisce
- Eliminate unnecessary stress.
