Techniques for Handling Challenging Anniversaries after a Death

Once a loved one has died, the anniversary of their death is something that often brings back old emotions of when that person died. It is normal to feel even more saddened than usual when the anniversary of a death comes around. However, the good news is that it does get easier, and here are a few ways in which you can handle these challenging anniversaries.

Consider a Family Gathering

There is nothing more soothing than being with numerous people who loved the person just as much as you. You will find that this can easily become a loving gathering of sharing your favorite stories of that person, talking about how great of a person they were, and the like. It can help you to cope with their loss through remembering the good times with that person.

Don’t Set Yourself Up for a Day of Sadness

While you know the anniversary of the death is coming up, be sure to make plans of some sort. Even if you want nothing more than to sit at home and watch movies. However, have a plan. With a plan you can avoid having an overall bad day.

Consider a Memorial Ritual

Many people use the first anniversary of the death of a loved one as a memorial ritual. They may do this on their own or with those that they are close to. They may visit the gravesite, look through old pictures or the like to help them remember the good in the person who has passed.

Whatever you do, remember that getting sad, depressed or even lonely is all perfectly okay. Everyone deals with the anniversary of a death differently.

Here at Arbutus Funeral Services, we understand that everyone deals with death differently, and it is our goal to help you navigate their funeral services and death with kindness.