Manny people avoid discussing grief, fearing they’ll burden others, according to Lorna Harrison, a bereavement counselor at Trinity Hospice in Blackpool. Harrison believes that opening up about grief can be transformative for those who haven’t previously done so.
Harrison compares societal attitudes towards grief to those surrounding death, noting that both are often only discussed during heightened emotional periods rather than as natural parts of life.”Attitudes to grief in society are similar to those surrounding death,” she said. “Both are often only talked about at times of heightened emotions rather than as a normal part of life.”
Trinity Hospice, which provides care across the Fylde Coast, offers a safe space for individuals to process their grief. “Trinity hospice offers a safe place in which people can ‘unlock what’s going on in their head or heart’,” Harrison explained.
For many, the holiday season is a time of joy and celebration. But for those who have lost loved ones, it can be a period of profound grief and loneliness. Hospices across the country are working to provide support and comfort to those navigating the complexities of loss during this frequently enough-difficult time.
Lorna, a dedicated hospice worker, understands the unique challenges faced by those grieving during the holidays. “It’s a time when memories are frequently enough amplified,” she explains. ”The absence of a loved one can feel even more profound.”
One individual who has found solace through hospice support is Joselyn Rae. After losing her mother,Joselyn struggled to cope. “I couldn’t even get dressed,” she recalls. “Life just seemed meaningless.”
“It is a journey I am enjoying, which doesn’t sound right going through grief, but I find I am a comfort to othre people as well now.”
Joselyn credits the hospice with helping her find a path forward. “They opened a new world for me,” she says. Now, she finds meaning in supporting others who are grieving.
As Christmas approaches, Joselyn encourages those who are grieving to remember the joy their loved ones brought into their lives.”They wouldn’t want you sad,” she advises. “Remember all those memories that you shared together, and it will make you smile.”
In a move reflecting evolving attitudes towards death and funerals, a Lancashire funeral director is offering mourners unique alternatives to customary hearses. Jack Hollowell, owner of Fylde Funerals, has acquired a fleet of unconventional vehicles to transport the deceased, ranging from a Harley Davidson motorcycle hearse to a Massey Ferguson tractor.
Hollowell believes this shift towards personalized funerals reflects a growing desire for meaningful and unique send-offs. “As a funeral director, we are always happy for people to come in and have a chat with us,” he said.”If ther’s anything that anybody needs to ask about, you can go to any funeral director, and everyone is always willing to help.”
Hayley Kay, a funeral celebrant, echoed this sentiment, stating, “It might make you cry, but remember them, it will help.”
Hollowell’s innovative approach aims to cater to the diverse needs and wishes of bereaved families, offering a more personalized and memorable way to say goodbye.
Grief is a universal experience, yet many find it difficult to discuss. This reluctance to talk about loss is something that constantly surprises Sarah, a professional who regularly encounters bereaved individuals.
“My job means I meet people who are bereaved and have lost somebody,” Sarah explains. “And one of the things that always surprises me is people’s reluctance to talk about grief and loss.”
She emphasizes the inevitability of loss, stating, “If you love somebody then you are going to lose somebody eventually, it really is our only certainty.”
Additional reporting by Hayley Kay.
If you, or someone you know, have been affected by bereavement, child bereavement or end of life care, you can find support through BBC Action Line.
## opening up About Grief: A Conversation wiht Lorna Harrison
**World Today News** sat down with Lorna Harrison, bereavement counselor at Trinity Hospice in Blackpool, to discuss the critical role of openness and support during times of grief, especially during the holiday season.
**WTN:** Lorna, you’ve said that societal attitudes towards grief often mirror those surrounding death itself. Can you elaborate on that?
**LH:** Absolutely. Both grief and death are topics that tend to be addressed only during heightened emotional periods,rather than as natural parts of the human experience. People frequently enough feel apprehensive about expressing their grief, fearing they’ll burden others. This silence, however, can be isolating and prevent healing.
**WTN:** Trinity Hospice provides a unique service by offering a safe space for individuals to process their grief. can you describe what that looks like?
**LH:** We aim to create a welcoming surroundings where individuals feel comfortable “unlocking” what’s going on within them. Whether it’s through individual counseling, support groups, or simply a listening ear, we strive to empower people to explore their feelings without judgment.
**WTN:** The holiday season can be particularly challenging for those who have lost loved ones. What advice woudl you give to those navigating grief during this time?
**LH:** This is a time when memories frequently enough become more intense. The absence of a loved one can feel even more profound. Remember that it’s okay to grieve, to feel sadness, and to honor the traditions that brought you joy in the past. But also, be kind to yourself. Allow yourself to experience the emotions that arise, and don’t feel pressured to pretend everything is fine.
**WTN:** What role do you believe hospices like Trinity play in supporting individuals and families during this challenging time?
**LH:** Hospices offer a crucial lifeline.We provide specialized care and support, not only to those nearing the end of life but also to their families and loved ones grieving their loss. We understand the complexities of grief and can offer guidance, coping mechanisms, and a compassionate space for healing.
**WTN:** Sharing personal stories can often be powerful in helping others who are grieving. Would you mind sharing a story about someone whose life has been touched by Trinity Hospice’s services?
**LH:** One woman who comes to mind is Joselyn rae. She lost her mother and initially struggled to cope. she felt utterly lost. With our support, she began to find her way back to a sense of purpose and meaning.
**WTN:** It’s heartwarming to hear about Joselyn’s journey. Do you have a message for others who might be feeling overwhelmed by grief,especially during the holiday season?
**LH:** Don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Whether it’s from a hospice like Trinity, a therapist, or a trusted friend or family member, talking about your grief and connecting with others who understand can make a profound difference. Remember, healing takes time, and it’s a journey unique to each individual.
For more details on grief support services offered by Trinity Hospice and other organizations, please visit [website address].
