Coping with loss during the holidays
VICTORY PARK – The Covid-19 pandemic has played its part in the devastating losses of loved ones in many communities across the world.
Grieving the death of your loved one? Dreading the holiday season? Things won’t be the same anymore, but that does not mean you won’t smile, laugh and celebrate again.
The Covid-19 pandemic has played its part in the devastating losses of loved ones in many communities across the world. The holiday season has also begun.
With the focus on family, annual traditions, expectations, social events and Christmas cheer, those mourning the death of a loved one can be faced with overwhelming emotions.
GriefShare’s Coralie Deas said knowing what to expect and being prepared could lessen the impact of these losses.
“After the devastating loss of a loved one led me to participate in a GriefShare group, I started this effective recovery programme in my parish of St Charles, Victory Park in 2014. Personally, during Covid-19 lockdown, I lost my half-sister who lived in Zimbabwe, and I was unable to travel to see her or attend the funeral,” said Deas.
The GriefShare Programme is a seminar/support group that, due to the impact of the Covid-19 lockdown, will run in an online seminar outside of its usual St Charles, Victory Park church.
“Participants are invited to share their feelings in a safe, confidential, non-judgmental environment, where no-one is pressured to participate,” she said.
Trained facilitators will be there to help those grieving the death of a loved one, to extend compassion and hope.
“Whilst the programme material is biblically based, it is open to everyone, no matter what religion, including those who do not follow a religion.”
Deas added that during the online seminar participants would receive support, watch a video and be part of a discussion group.
Survival guide workbooks will be provided which offer assignments to dig deep with questions on the grief journey.
Details: Coralie Deas 083 524 7016.
