Offering hope, comfort and support for survivors of suicide loss.
I'm writing this today in loving memory of my father on the two year anniversary of his passing. I still cannot believe that it has been two years since I last heard my father's voice. It has been two years since I felt his embrace, heard his laugh, or smiled at one of his many witty comments. It has been two years since I have called my father from a sporting event just to let him know that his little girl still loves her sports. Nothing in this ...
I wanted to share a memorial tool that I’ve used several times during group grief counseling (Becky, Jessica and I have done this together as well). A memorial candle lighting ceremony with spoken verses has been especially comforting during difficult times, like the holidays, birthdays and anniversaries. We recently performed it at LOSS two weeks ago in a group setting. This was the first time that I was overcome by emotion and cried. It felt so ...
At the last LOSS monthly meeting I attended, we discussed some tips to help with grief during the holidays. I wanted to share them with you all, as I have used many of them over the past few years. I have included them below along with my comments on what has worked best for me since losing both my mom and dad.
Openly Discuss Past Traditions
Talk things over with family and friends and make changes accordingly to the wishes of those who are ...
This will be the third Christmas since my Dad's 2011 suicide. It’s crazy to think that much time has passed since he died. He passed away in July, so the first Christmas, which was less than 5 months after, was horrible. I had so much anxiety and fear going into that holiday. I felt so alone—we were coming into the season where you’re supposed to celebrate and embrace family, and I felt like I didn’t have anyone. My Mom passed away three years ...
As longtime readers will know, I frequently explore new and different ways to cope with my grief – from relaxing with tea, to acupuncture and meditation. Tonight, I attended a special yoga event as part of a bereavement support program and wanted to share my experience with you. Around this time last year, I met Nancy Perlson through a Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide gathering. She’s a licensed clinical social worker and registered yoga ...
