HEALTAHR TCARE HOPE FOR THE HOLIDAYS By Rafael J. Sciullo Rafael J. Sciullo NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2016 | TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 137 November is here and reminders of the holidays are everywhere. For most people it is a time of joy and anticipation. For those who are bereaved, however, it is a time where sounds, sights and smells trigger memories of holidays past. There might be feelings of dread and anxiety because of the unknown and unrealistic expectations that the holidays can bring. Empath Health offers hope and help to get through this season at our “Hope for the Holidays” workshops facilitated by licensed counselors and social workers at Empath Health community service centers. Everyone in the community is invited to attend free of charge. We help those who are grieving understand that the holidays can be challenging, but also an opportune time to honor the past – or even start anew. It is a difficult time, but it can also be a beautiful time to continue old traditions or create new experiences with family and friends. Finding meaningful ways to honor a deceased loved one can be the first step to embracing the holidays. Consider donating to a favorite charity in their honor, or making a book of memorabilia or photos about them and sharing with the family. Sharing favorite stories can give others permission to talk about the deceased. It can help to decide early which traditions to continue this year as well as ones to put aside or change-up. This reach out for support at holiday time. If possible, talk with neighbors and friends to have a support system and keep that encouragement going. With our workshops, we help people find their way through this season of grief and hold their hands on these journeys. Often the anticipation of the holidays is far worse than the actual holiday. Someone grieving may need to think a little differently and plan creatively. If you’ve lost a loved one and you find that you are enjoying yourself, do not feel guilty. Joy does not mean you have forgotten your loved one. You are just living in the present and investing in your future. Our bereavement counselors are here to help. Check out our online calendar for the “Hope for the Holidays” workshops in November and December. You’re also invited to join our special “Starting a New Year Without Your Loved One” workshop on December 30th. For more information about Empath Health, workshops or any of our programs, visit us at EmpathHealth.org or call (727) 467-7423. 9 EDITOR’S NOTE: Rafael J. Sciullo is president and CEO of Empath Health, a nonprofit integrated network of care for those affected by chronic or advanced illness. For more information about services, call (727) 467-7423 or visit EmpathHealth.org. can include meals, worship services and scale of entertaining or choosing not to entertain at all. Share with family and friends to help ease expectations. No one has to do the same routines. Typical holiday activities can be upsetting for a grieving person. Consider how you can make them less stressful. Begin shopping earlier, shop online or combine shopping with a fun activity such as a movie or a meal. Pare down decorations or ask friends or family to help out. Some people don’t know what to do. They become anxious and overwhelmed. Self-care during the holidays can help. Set aside time for yourself for relaxation and reflection, maintain a regular schedule, spend time with friends, or help others by volunteering. We encourage bereaved individuals to
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