ROANOKE, Va. (WDBJ) – While many spent the long weekend celebrating Labor Day, for some families, this time of year can be especially painful.
Just last week was National Grief Awareness Day, and experts say the fall and holiday season can be one of the toughest times to navigate loss.
The sound of celebration can sometimes make silence feel even louder. For those grieving the loss of a loved one, this time of year often deepens that pain.
“It is very, very hard to accept the loss of a loved one, much less your child who should be there your entire life. So it is extremely difficult, and you should not do it alone,” said Holly Humphreys, Licensed Professional Counselor with Thriveworks.
Experts say grief touches nearly everyone at some point, whether it’s losing an opportunity, like a job, or in more serious cases, losing someone far too soon.
“Grieving can demonstrate, not just emotionally, but physically… it can even affect a person’s immune system and wear them down,” said Humphreys.
That pain can lead to people wanting to isolate, but counselors say the best remedy is connection.
“There’s something about getting through grief knowing you’re not in it alone,” said Humphreys.
Humphreys says she sees it every year as fall turns into winter. Shorter, darker days often amplify feelings of sadness.
“It’s only temporary you will get through those months. They’re just a bit tougher so you have to be mindful to pack your days in with more self care, or things that bring you a little bit of joy,” says Humphreys.
And for children experiencing grief, she says honesty and openness are key. Answering their questions and letting them express emotions helps them heal.
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