Surviving the Holidays

Dealing with trauma is always challenging but the experience is more intense during the Christmas season.  Since our most precious memories are part of the traditions and celebrations of Christmas and New Year, there are many things that can **trigger emotional ambushes.**  Without warning, any of a number of activities—traditions, songs, sights, sounds, smells, foods can remind us of our loss.

At times we feel that we will not survive the holiday period.  Each day, each celebration, each gathering is a dreaded event. One wishes that one could skip the many gatherings and just be alone.
However, grief counsellors, and those who have experienced grief say that in order to help recovery, it is better to say, “This is difficult but with God’s help I believe I can make it through these days.”  They recommend that you remember the words of the Psalmist.  
But you, God, see the trouble of the afflicted; you consider their grief and take it in hand.  The victims commit themselves to you; you are the helper of the fatherless. Psalms 10:14

As we continue we will share some practical ideas about how to do that.  However, for today, do not try to fight your emotions when they come but claim this promise through prayer.