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SARH Helps Those Grieving Cope With Stress, Especially That Which Is Felt During The Holiday Season

For many, the holidays are a very joyous time, filled with friends, family and memories to be made and cherished for years to come. For thousands of others, however, the holidays can trigger depression and memories that are also associated with the loss of a loved one. People may feel alone, even when surrounded by others, and the missing piece in their lives is highlighted by their absence in all of the traditions. To help these people navigate the grief process, St. Anthony Regional Hospital (SARH) has established a bereavement support group, and social worker, Ann Byrne-Boes explains how many of these people may feel.

Byrne-Boes says there are several things people need to do to take care of themselves during the holiday season.

The support group is open to the public and they generally see people join through word of mouth. Volunteer and bereavement coordinator, Carmen Schimmer, says it is important to talk to someone you trust about your feelings, whether that is a friend, family or clergy member or a counselor. The bereavement support group is also a great place to start, especially for those who want to take some time to open up about what they are experiencing.

Byrne-Boes says friends and family members can help their loved ones by suggesting they attend the support group when they see specific signs.

There are many other ways that people learn how to manage their grief through the holidays. First and foremost, continue to talk about the person who has died, watch their favorite movies, talk about favorite memories and keep the spirit of that person alive. You can also make a donation in the name of the loved one to help work through the grief. You need to give yourself permission to change some of the established traditions and lower your expectations. Some traditions may be too painful, and you can give yourself a break by avoiding those and creating something new. Others can help the grieving person by being a friend and a listening ear. St. Anthony Bereavement Support Group meetings are held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 5 p.m. in the Hospice office, Suite 2 of the Luke Building. October through March, they do offer a 1 p.m. session in meeting room two at the hospital as well. More information is available through the contact points included below. Full audio of this interview can also be found here.

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For more information:        Ann Byrne-Boes

                                                Phone: 712-794-5517

                                                Email: AByrne@stanthonyhospital.org

 

Full interview with Ann Byrne-Boes and Carmen Schimmer

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