Death and grief can be taboo subjects in our culture, which only makes them less understood. Grief is a natural and important process we all go through when we experience loss.
What tools exist to help us through grief? How do we navigate the holiday season when that special person is gone?
On this episode of The Rounds, we explore those questions and much more with Kathy Doe, an expert in grief management. Kathy has a master’s degree in social work and is the bereavement coordinator for Marshfield Medical Center-Rice Lake. She leads group sessions for those who are working through grief.
The Rounds: Death, grief and the holidays (text transcription)
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7 Comments
Can this apply to the loss of a pet also?
This is a wonderful podcast. I've sent it on to be shared with so many people who seem to be suffering now. Thank you for making it available.
Hi Bobbie,
Thanks for reaching out. We are so glad you like this podcast and we appreciate you sharing it with other people! 🙂
Hope all is well,
Jake
Thanks for putting this valuable information out here. I could really identify with the phases of grief the doctor spoke of on death and dying. I lost my husband after a long illness in 2013. my mother died 14 months later and my father died in 2016. It was almost unbearable the loss I felt and I didn't try to muffle the grief I lived with it and prayed a lot. Today I am finally enjoying holidays again and life is good. Be kind to yourself and take the time you need, there aren't any rules in this journey.
Thank you for sharing your experience, Dona. We are certain your advice will help other readers and listeners.
-Kirstie
Very helpful, thank you. I lost a sister this year and now have a brother who is terminally ill. Singing Christmas carols becomes near impossible. Would that be considered a normal reaction?
Hi, Nancy,
We are so sorry for your loss and hardship. I shared your question with Kathy, bereavement coordinator, and she said it’s just not possible to classify grief as “normal,” that everyone experiences grief differently. She added that what you are experiencing is definitely not unusual.
Kathy encourages you to seek out someone you can trust to talk with about these feelings – a good friend, church or family member. She also encourages people (if they have computer access) to subscribe to: grieftoolbox.com, which gives access to a lot of great resources and contacts with others who are experiencing similar feelings.
Sending you our best wishes this holiday season.
Kirstie