This holiday season might mark the initial one following the loss of a loved one. The holidays can become hard for many as grief tends to cling to us. It doesn’t just affect us personally; it also becomes intertwined with specific moments and locations.
“Instead of the usual holiday traditions evoking feelings of ‘comfort and joy’ in us, they tend to resurface memories and emotions that can also bring forth feelings of sorrow and heartache,” says Garrett Walkup, RVNAhealth Manager of Bereavement, Social Work, and Pastoral Care Services.
Special Presentation: Grief, Healing and the Holidays
To provide additional support during this time of year, RVNAhealth will host two presentations on “Grief, Healing and the Holidays.” These lectures will include “how to cope with the emotions and feelings of the season, how to handle holiday traditions, and what to do differently – and the same,” says Walkup. Walkup will cover several suggestions to help you with coping and healing. Strategies such as mindset, being kind to yourself, asking for support, creating boundaries, and more will be covered.
- Grief, Healing, and the Holidays: Tuesday, November 12, 2024 from 1:00-2:30pm, at RVNAhealth, 27 Governor Street, Ridgefield.
- Grief, Healing, and the Holidays: Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 9:30am-10:30am at the New Milford Senior Center, 40 Main Street, New Milford. This event is open to the public and breakfast will be served – RSVP requested.
These programs are open to all members of the community and are intended to offer support through the holiday season for those who have experienced a loss. You may contact Garrett Walkup, at 475-529-6118, or gwalkup@rvnahealth.org if you have any questions.
Ongoing Monthly Grief/Bereavement Support Groups Available
RVNAhealth also offers monthly support groups at both its Ridgefield and New Milford offices. These are open to anyone needing a space for comfort and guidance on grief and healing. Please see current dates available below. Check out the RVNAhealth calendar / support groups tab for the latest information and offerings.
About RVNAhealth
RVNAhealth is a private, 501c(3) non-profit organization which provides a continuum of care to people in 35+ towns across Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. RVNAhealth depends on financial support from individuals like you who believe that healthy communities improve the quality of life for everyone. Every gift — no matter the size — is critical to upholding our mission and sustaining our important work. If you would like to support RVNAhealth’s mission to deliver unmatched, compassionate healthcare when and where it is needed, please click here.