The spring and summer months are associated with happiness, warmth, and joy. However, for those who are grieving, these months can be particularly challenging. How do you cope with the loss of a loved one during a time when everyone else seems to be celebrating life?
According to the Hospice Foundation of America, grief is a natural response to loss and can affect every aspect of our lives. While the grieving process is unique to each individual, the spring and summer months can pose additional hurdles for those who are trying to heal.
If you are experiencing grief during the spring and summer months, know that you are not alone. There are many ways to cope with your emotions and find a sense of peace. Below are 15 tips to help you navigate this difficult time and honor your loved one's memory in a meaningful way.
Seasonal grief refers to the emotional pain and suffering associated with the death of a loved one that is felt more intensely during certain times of the year. Seasonal grief can be especially difficult because it occurs during a time of year that is usually associated with happy occasions and joyful events. This contrast can make it more painful for those who are grieving.
Seasonal grief can occur during any time of the year but is most often associated with holidays. However, every time of year holds special meaning to someone who's lost a loved one. The spring and summer is no exception.
Seasonal grief can affect anyone who has lost a loved one or suffered a great loss. Grief affects those who experience the death of a loved one, such as a spouse, family member, friend, or even pet. Grief may also affect those grieving a past life, such as a lost job opportunity, the loss of a home, or a severed friendship.
The changing seasons bring up memories for everyone. Especially those who are coping with grief and loss.
The spring and summer months may be difficult for those dealing with bereavement for many reasons. We each have our own memories attached to each season. Though every person experiences bereavement differently, we may experience seasonal grief in the spring and summer months for similar reasons.
The spring and summer months are a time of rebirth. Warmer temperatures invigorate nature and bring people out of their homes. Sunny days are happy and hopeful, especially after the long, cold winter months. But for those who are grieving, this happiness can feel misplaced or wrong.
Someone experiencing seasonal grief may find it hard to experience the joys of spring and summer without feeling guilt. They may enjoy the feel of warm sunshine on their skin or a trip to the ocean, but not feel right about enjoying themselves. People experiencing grief during spring and summer believe they should be grieving, not having fun.
While some people coping with grief and loss during the spring and summer may feel guilty for enjoying themselves, some people may be unable to enjoy themselves at all. It can be difficult for someone in emotional pain to watch the world around them experience joy when they are hurting.
Warm sunny days may as well be cold, dark nights. The contrast between the dark, cold feeling of grief with the warm, invigorating feeling of spring and summer is difficult for the bereaved. It can make seasonal grief even worse.
Winter holidays are generally hardest for people coping with grief. But holidays during the summer months can be difficult for them too. Especially if they have strong memories of the deceased tied to these holidays or events. Seasonal grief during summer is common during summer events like family reunions, BBQs, weddings, vacations, and more.
Warmer months are when people are most active and socializing with others. This can cause grief triggers to the bereaved. Witnessing others enjoying themselves during these social occasions may cause the bereaved to miss their loved one more.
Most people are off on vacation or taking shorter work days to enjoy the warm weather during summer. In many places around the world, summer is a slow period. School isn't session, businesses may close during these months, and life in general slows down. While this is often enjoyed by most people, it can be harder on the bereaved.
Lazy summer days means less to keep you occupied. When you're busy with work or school, it's easier to push intrusive thoughts out of your mind. However, with more time on your hands, you may fall deeper into your seasonal grief.
Self-care is important when dealing with grief and the changing seasons. Neglecting your needs during this period of bereavement will only make coping with loss harder. Take care of your health by getting plenty of exercise, eating healthy foods, going for long walks, doing activities you enjoy (like gardening or playing tennis), and socializing with friends and family.
Taking care of yourself during grief is important in any season, but be wary of seasons that are more likely to cause you seasonal grief. For example, an upcoming holiday that was the deceased's favorite, or their birthday. Plan to feel sadness during this time and prepare activities that will help you cope.
If you are helping someone cope with grief, be mindful of particular dates during the year. Holidays, anniversaries, and birthdays are especially hard for someone coping with grief and loss.
Check in with your friend or loved one during the year, especially on these dates. Call them up on the phone, pay a house visit, or plan a get-together with them so they are not lonely on these harder days.
Seasonal grief is difficult but there are ways that may help you cope better. Whether you are grieving yourself or helping someone else through grief, the following tips may be helpful.
Nature can be incredibly healing. Especially during the spring and summer months when everything is in full bloom. Taking a walk through the park or simply spending some time in your backyard can help you feel more connected to life’s cycle of birth and death.
Being outside can help you appreciate the changes in the season. The sunshine will give you a boost of energy and a feeling of renewed hope.
Use the season of rebirth to bring new life and energy into your home. Do some "spring cleaning" and get rid of the old to let in the new. Re-organizing and re-arranging your home can give you a fresh outlook and a feeling of accomplishment to boost your mood.
Get rid of clutter and things you no longer need or no longer bring you joy. Spring cleaning is both useful as well as symbolic. A cluttered home is a cluttered mind. Letting go of physical items can help you let go of difficult emotions or memories. Think of spring cleaning as a fresh start for your new life.
Coping with grief and loss can cause you to lose interest in things you once loved. However, there is comfort in routine and getting back to the activities that bring you joy. Though it may be difficult, try to maintain your hobbies and interests that connect you closer to others.
Taking part in activities or hobbies that bring you joy can take your mind off grief. It can help remind you that there is still life worth living. It will also give you something to focus your attention and energy too, rather than your grief and sadness.
The approaching spring and summer holidays bring with it memories of past spring and summer holidays. These memories may be precious and joyful, but also sad. Though you may want to cherish these memories forever, they make moving on more difficult. By creating new traditions for celebrating the spring and summer season, you lessen the pain of the past.
If you always went to the beach for summer vacation, go to the mountains instead. If you and the family always ate Italian food to celebrate Independence Day, eat Greek food instead. Make changes to your traditions and celebrations to usher in new positive memories and let go of your grief.
Grief triggers can be anything that serves as a painful reminder of your loss. A grief trigger could be a song, holiday, date, item, or season that reminds you of the deceased. The spring and summer season may be filled with many events or social gatherings that could be triggering. Plan ahead for your grief triggers to ensure you have the proper support.
If you have been invited somewhere that may be a grief trigger, bring a friend or family member with you for support. If your grief trigger is a certain day (like the deceased's birthday), plan something on that day to keep you occupied. For example, plan a get- together with friends or buy tickets to a concert or event.
Planning ahead for your grief triggers can help keep your grief from consuming you.
Memorial jewelry or keepsake jewelry can help you feel connected to your loved one at all times. Gifts of remembrance such as memorial coins or custom ash jewelry hold special meaning. With keepsake jewelry and gifts, you carry with you the essence of your loved one through the changing seasons.
Wearing your remembrance jewelry and gifts can help ease any guilt you feel for enjoying the season without your loved one. it can make you feel like they are there with you and enjoying the season by your side. Examples of remembrance jewelry and memorial gifts include:
Cremation jewelry is a beautiful and thoughtful way to keep a loved one close during the summer and spring months when you may be missing them more than ever. This unique type of memorial jewelry can be used to honor those who have passed away, providing comfort and solace along with a tangible reminder of the memories shared together.
Cremation jewelry comes in many different styles, from necklace pendants, rings, and more. Cremation jewelry incorporates a small amount of your loved one's ashes into the jewelry piece. In this way, you keep a physical part of your loved one with you always.
Photo engraved jewelry is a visual way to keep the memory of a loved one alive through laser engraved imaging. Color photo engraved jewelry allows you to print a realistic photo of your loved one onto a necklace, keychain, or wallet. Having your loved one's picture on your person can be comforting. Especially at times you are missing them most.
Custom memorial coins are coins that can be personalized with your loved one’s name, photo, or favorite quote. Memorial coins can be easily carried in your pocket or purse, close by for when you need it most. They also make great memorial gifts for family members or friends who are also grieving the loss of your loved ones.
Fingerprint jewelry is a meaningful way to honor a loved one who has passed away. This kind of jewelry captures a unique part of the deceased that can be kept close forever. Fingerprint jewelry comes in many forms including pendants, keychains, coins, and rings.
Fingerprint jewelry uses engraving technology to engrave your loved one's fingerprint onto its surface. You will even feel the ridges of your loved one's fingerprint, making it more special. Some custom fingerprint jewelry pieces even allow for custom word engraving to add an extra special touch.
As a tribute to your loved one, ashes into jewelry allows you to transform a portion of their ashes into a beautiful, personalized piece of jewelry. From rings and pendants to bracelets and charms, ashes into jewelry is an intimate and meaningful way to honor your loved one's memory.
Jewelry made with ash is a discreet and personal way to honor your loved one wherever you go. Ash rings and ash necklaces resemble beautiful stones that can be fitted into various styles of jewelry pieces.
Guilt is a common emotion associated with grief. You may feel guilty for enjoying yourself, or even being alive when your loved one is not. If you find yourself enjoying the sunshine and nature during the spring and summer months, that's okay.
Grief is a complicated emotion which can bring on a range of contradictory feelings. It’s okay to have moments of joy, even when you’re grieving. It doesn't mean you love or miss the deceased any less. Allow yourself to find joy, even while bereaved.
Look for bereavement groups or online communities that are specifically tailored for people who are grieving during the spring and summer months. Connecting with other people who understand seasonal grief can be incredibly beneficial for your mental health.
Joining a bereavement support group can help you feel less alone when coping with grief. You'll meet with people who are experiencing the same feelings you are, which can be incredibly comforting. You may even make new friends and build meaningful relationships that can help you along your grief journey. Connecting with other people may help you process your emotions in healthier ways.
You may experience many mixed emotions about celebrating special occasions during the spring and summer season without your loved one. You may feel excitement, guilt, sadness, and even anger. These emotions are normal when coping with loss and grief.
Acknowledging these feelings is part of healthy grieving. It's okay to feel these emotions whether they seem appropriate or not. Acknowledge your feelings for being part of your grieving process, but don't dwell on them. Know that these feelings will pass whether they are good or bad.
Create a "memory box:" where you can store items that remind you of your loved one. Revisiting these objects from time-to-time may provide comfort, assurance, and acceptance over their absence. A memory box can give you an outlet for expressing difficult emotions.
It can be incredibly helpful on certain days during the spring or summer when your seasonal grief is at its worst. Making a memory box will give you something to focus you energy on while being a tribute to your deceased loved one.
Participate in activities that your loved one liked to do in life. Whether it’s taking a cooking class, visiting the beach, attending concerts, or volunteering at a local charity organization. Doing things you know they would have enjoyed may help bring closure and peace of mind.
Being active is one of the more healthy ways of grieving. You will feel more connected to your loved one while also accomplishing something. When seasonal grief is taking it's toll on you, getting out and taking part in different activities can help.
Reach out to family and friends for emotional support whenever needed. Don't be afraid to talk about your feelings with those who are close to you. Chances are they will be more than willing to listen and offer comfort during this time.
Your grief season will be hard but having emotional support will help. Keep your friends and family close, don't isolate yourself. Ask them to check in with you often, even when you don't feel like talking. Just knowing you have people by your side when you need them can be of great comfort.
Write a gratitude list for the time you were able to spend with your deceased loved one. Writing down all the things you are thankful for can be an incredibly therapeutic experience and may provide closure in times of distress. Your list can include positive memories of the deceased, special things you shared with them, or ways they helped you grow.
Feeling grateful for the time you spent with your loved one can be helpful for coping with grief. It will fill your heart with positive memories and remind you how special your loved one was. Writing down the many ways in which your loved one made your life better can be healing. It can help you process your feelings and let go of anger or resentment towards their death.
When grief doesn't ease, you may have what is known as prolonged grief. Prolonged grief is an extreme case of grief that lasts longer than usual. While grief is normal and even beneficial, the benefits of grief diminish when it's not experienced in a healthy way.
If your grief is becoming overwhelming, reach out to a mental health professional who specializes in bereavement counseling or talk therapy. It’s normal to be overwhelmed by intense emotions and speaking with a qualified therapist can help. A mental health professional will teach you ways to cope and properly process your grief. In some cases, they may suggest medication to help ease your more extreme symptoms of grief.
Each season brings with it unique ways to remember our loved ones. Below are some ideas for remembering your loved one during the spring and summer months.
Many cities, towns, and communities have designated areas in parks or other public spaces that are dedicated to those who have passed away. Going to a memorial garden can be a great way to remember your loved one, while also enjoying the beauty of the spring or summer months.
Spend time in your own garden when you are missing your loved one. Consider planting a something in memoriam of their life. Planting something in memory of your loved one can be a beautiful way of honoring their life. Plant a tree, a flower, or even a vegetable in their honor and watch it grow over the spring and summer months.
Music is healing and can provide much comfort for those grieving. Take advantage of the warmer weather by attending outdoor concerts with friends or family members. Listening to music can be therapeutic and a great way to remember your loved one in a positive light.
Find a band your loved one was a fan of or something you think they would enjoy. You can wear a piece of cremation jewelry or keepsake jewelry to feel as if you are experiencing the concert together.
Planning a road trip is a great way to get away from your everyday routine and explore something new. Pack your bags, recruit a friend, or plan a solo road trip. You'll get to explore new places, listen to your favorite road trip music playlist, and get away from your daily life.
Road trips can be fun and a time for discovery. They also give you an opportunity to reflect on your feelings and emotions. Sometimes you need to get away from your normal environment to see your situation more clearly. A road trip can be an excellent healing tool for coping with grief.
Visiting the grave of your loved one can be a comforting way to remember them. Make sure to bring a bouquet of flowers, snap some pictures and take time to talk with them. The warmer months make spending more time with your loved one a more comfortable experience.
Take advantage of warmer temperatures to sit by your loved one's grave and reminisce. Speak to them verbally or write them a letter to leave by their graveside. Plan to spend an entire afternoon by your loved one's side to gain closure and acceptance.
Going to the beach can be a great way to bring yourself some peace of mind. Allow yourself to take in the beauty of nature and connect with your surroundings. Going to the beach can give you an opportunity to reflect on your grief and loss in a calming atmosphere.
There is something healing about being in proximity of water, especially the vast ocean. Going to a lake or river front can have a similar healing effect. Rushing waters brings a sense of calm to the mind that may help you process your emotions easier.
At first, attending a party or BBQ may seem like a difficult idea to consider when grieving. However, it can be an excellent way to celebrate the life and memories of your loved one. Hanging out with friends, family, or even new acquaintances can help get you out of your shell.
Being social and hanging around close friends and family who knew the deceased can be comforting. It will remind you that you are loved and needed in this world. It can also help you feel less lonely when you're missing your loved one.
If you're having trouble coping with seasonal grief, there are lots of resources available to you. Below are more options for getting help and methods for coping with grief.
When grief becomes overwhelming, or you're not sure who to talk to about your feelings, your doctor can help. They may be able to refer you to a mental health specialist who specializes in grief counseling. They might also be able to refer you to a local support group or prescribe you medication (only when deemed necessary) to make your grief more manageable. When in doubt, talk to a trusted individual like your doctor.
Mindfulness-based activities such as meditation or guided relaxation techniques can be helpful in managing seasonal grief. These activities can help you stay grounded and focused on the present moment.
Staying focused in the present can be especially helpful during difficult times. Mindfulness teaches you to look at your thoughts and feelings from a different perspective. It helps you get out of your own head and stay focused on what matters most.
Exercise is a great way to boost your mood and cope with grief-related emotions. Physical activity releases endorphins, which help calm your nerves and make you feel happier. Exercise can also be a powerful tool for improving your focus and relinquishing intrusive thoughts.
When you're focused on your exercise routine, you're less focused on your grief. Even if it’s just going for a walk or stretching, any physical activity can be beneficial when dealing with seasonal grief.
If you're religious, consider reaching out to your church group. Church groups take care of one another and may even have resources for helping you through seasonal grief. At the very least, your church group can provide you with social support and comfort.
Become more involved with your church both to seek support and refocus your energy. If you are busy volunteering for church activities, you'll have less time for intrusive thoughts.
Many authors have written books, articles, and blogs on the subject of seasonal grief. Do your research and search for information online or in your local bookstore or library. Many of these authors are people who have experienced seasonal grief themselves. They may also be mental health professionals who can provide professional guidance for coping with seasonal grief.
Journaling can be a helpful tool for coping with grief. By writing about your feelings, thoughts, and experiences, you can process your emotions in a healthy way. Journaling allows you to express your emotions without fear of judgement or interruption. It also provides an opportunity for reflection, which can help you gain perspective on your emotions and experiences.
Journaling can help you to identify patterns in your grief, and to recognize when you are making progress in your healing process. Overall, journaling can be a valuable outlet for anyone who is experiencing seasonal grief, providing them with a safe and private space to process their emotions and work towards healing.
No matter what type of support you choose, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out to friends and family for support, and don’t hesitate to seek professional help if needed.
There are lots of resources available that can provide guidance and comfort as you work through your grief. With the right support, seasonal sadness can be less overwhelming and more manageable.
Typical grief reactions can vary from person to person, but common reactions include shock, disbelief, anger, guilt, anxiety, sadness, and depression. People may experience physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, loss of appetite, and fatigue. It is also common for individuals to experience a range of emotions and mood swings.
Grief can also affect one’s ability to concentrate and can impact daily life activities. However, grief is a natural process and there is no right or wrong way to grieve.
Grief can be difficult to deal with at any time, but there are certain seasons that can exacerbate the feelings of sadness and loss. Many people find that winter is the most difficult season for grieving. Colder, darker days can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Additionally, the holiday season can be particularly challenging.
Holidays are a time when families and friends gather, which can serve as a painful reminder of the loved one who is no longer there. However, every person's experience with grief is different, and what may be difficult for one person may not be the same for another. It is important to seek support and care during any season of grieving.
Grief is a complex and personal experience that is not always easy to navigate. Coping with grief during the changing seasons can be particularly difficult. It's important to acknowledge and validate your feelings, and to seek support from friends, family, or a therapist.
You may also find comfort in creating new traditions or rituals to honor your loved one's memory, or in volunteering and giving back to your community. Taking care of yourself through self-care practices such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies can also help you manage your grief during the changing seasons. Remember, healing is a journey, and there is no one "right" way to cope with grief.
Seasonal grief is a type of grief that occurs during specific times of the year, such as holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries. These times are often associated with happy memories and traditions, but can also serve as painful reminders of a loved one who has passed away.
Seasonal grief can cause feelings of sadness, loneliness, and emptiness, and can be especially difficult to cope with if the loss is recent.
There are many things that may help with grieving during the spring and summer months. Firstly, you could try spending more time outside in nature, taking walks, or going on hikes. This can help to clear your mind and provide a sense of peace and calm. Secondly, you could try engaging in activities that you enjoy such as reading, writing, or painting.
Creative outlets can provide a way to express your feelings and emotions in a healthy way. You could also consider joining a support group or seeking therapy to talk about your grief and work through your emotions. Finally, it can be helpful to seek comfort from loved ones or to honor the memory of the person you have lost through rituals or traditions.
Remembrance jewelry can help with grief by providing a tangible connection to a loved one who has passed away. Wearing a piece of jewelry with their name or a symbol that represents them can bring comfort and serve as a reminder of their presence.
Additionally, creating or choosing a piece of remembrance jewelry can be a cathartic and healing process for those who are grieving. It allows them to honor their loved one in a meaningful way and feel like they are keeping a part of them close. Overall, remembrance jewelry can provide a source of comfort and solace during a difficult time of mourning.
Grief is difficult to cope with any time of the year. During the spring and summer months, it can seem even more challenging. The sunny days and warmer temperatures can serve as a reminder of all that has been lost.
But it’s important to remember that grief doesn’t have to define your life. Grief is a part of life but it's only temporary. Through hard work and implementing different strategies for coping with grief, you can heal in a healthy, timely manner.
May 15, 2023 by Frances Kay