For many, Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate. For those who have lost a mother or a child, Mother’s Day can be a day filled with anxiety, sadness and isolation. Parents and children in our support groups often share that the anticipation of special days without their loved ones is often more difficult than the actual day itself.
Here are some questions to think about to help the bereaved prepare for Mother’s Day:
- Where do you want to be that day?
- What do you want to be doing that day?
- Who do you want to be doing it with?
- Who are you doing all of this for?
Another helpful tip is to talk about and remember the loved one who died. Both parents and children in our program talk about how hurtful it is when no one mentions their loved one’s name. A parent and child relationship never ends. Help them remember and honor their loved one by bringing out photos, telling stories, reminiscing and speaking their name. Remember that there is no right or wrong way to grieve. Be patient with loved ones and allow them to feel both grief and joy. Having pleasurable moments does not mean that they have forgotten their loved one or love them any less.
We hope your day is filled with love and special memories.
~Teresa Bartnicki, Counselor
