Anniversary Reaction Grief
When the anniversary of the date of the loss approaches, many may experience what the literature calls "anniversary reaction grief." Many may not expect to revisit their grief on the anniversary of the loss, however, there is the possibility that revisiting these emotions can provide an opportunity to heal.
Anger
Anxiety
Crying spells
Depression
Fatigue, or lack of energy
Guilt
Loneliness
Pain
Sadness
Trouble sleeping
Some do not experience feelings at the anniversary of the loss, but for those who do, it is very normal. Here are some tips on how to cope with the reaction to the anniversary of the loss:
Be prepared.
Plan a distraction.
Reminisce about your relationship.
Start a new tradition.
Connect with others.
Allow yourself to feel a range of emotions.
I am not looking forward to Christmas since my mother died only a week away from Christmas. What makes me leary of how I will react is that my mother was always sad during the Christmas holidays since she experienced great loss during this time as well. I am prepared for a reaction, but I also do not want the anniversary to rob me of the joy that I have always felt at watching my children's excitement at the anticipation of Christmas especially since I have grandchildren now. I hope that knowing that my mother loved her great grandchildren greatly will help me to cope with the anniversary.
How have you dealt with the anniversary of your loss?
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