Dealing with bereavement grief over the festive period

The festive season – a time for joy, laughter, and togetherness. Yet, for those carrying the weight of grief, it can feel like an unwelcome guest has crashed the party. The twinkling lights and cheerful carols only amplify the absence of a loved one, leaving us grappling with emotions that seem at odds with the merry mood.


Grief doesn't take holidays. It lingers like a shadow, stretching its long fingers across familiar traditions and cherished memories. The empty chair at the dinner table, the unopened gift with their name tag, the echo of laughter that's now a painful silence – these become stark reminders of what's lost, leaving us adrift in a sea of bittersweet emotions.


It's okay to not feel festive. To mourn when everyone seems merry. To crumble as the world carols on. Your grief is real, its weight genuine, and deserves acknowledgment, not suppression.


So, how do we navigate this emotional minefield and find moments of solace amidst the holiday cheer?


Acknowledge the pain: Bottling up emotions only intensifies them. Allow yourself to grieve, to cry, to scream if you need to. Talk to a trusted friend, seek professional help, or write your feelings down. Acknowledging your pain is the first step towards healing.

Reimagine traditions: Traditions hold cherished memories, but they don't have to be rigid. Create new rituals that honor your loved one. Visit their favorite places, share stories about them, light a candle in their memory, or donate to a cause they cared about. Redefining traditions can provide comfort and keep them present even in their absence.

Seek moments of joy: Grief doesn't mean you can't experience happiness. Find moments that bring you a genuine smile – a walk in nature, a funny movie, a cosy night reading. Allow yourself these pockets of joy, for they are not betrayals, but acknowledgements of life's enduring beauty.

Connect with others who understand: You're not alone in your grief. Seek out support groups, online communities, or friends who have experienced loss. Sharing your pain with others who understand can lighten the burden and offer companionship on this difficult journey.


Remember, there's no "right" way to grieve. Allow yourself to feel whatever you're feeling, without judgment. Take care of yourself – prioritise sleep, exercise, and healthy eating. Reach out for help when you need it.


The holidays may be different this year, tinged with sadness and longing. But amidst the glitter and tinsel, find glimmers of hope, moments of solace, and the strength to carry your grief with grace. You are not alone. And within the quietude of your heart, even amidst the festive din, find your own path to finding peace, one gentle step at a time.


This festive season, may we all hold space for both grief and joy, for loss and love, for remembering and moving forward. And may we, in our vulnerability, find the courage to heal and emerge, carrying the light of our loved ones within us, as we step into the embrace of the new year.

Coping with an Adult ADHD Diagnosis

13 October 2024
Understanding Your Diagnosis Receiving an ADHD diagnosis as an adult can be a mix of relief and uncertainty. It might finally explain the challenges you've faced, but it also raises new questions. Here’s how to cope with this significant life event: 1. Educate Yourself Research ADHD: Learn about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. This knowledge can empower you to manage your condition effectively. Join Support Groups: Connect with others who understand what you're going through. Sharing experiences can be incredibly helpful. 2. Accept and Embrace Your Diagnosis Avoid Self-Blame: ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, not a personal failing. Celebrate Your Strengths: Focus on your unique talents and abilities, which can often be enhanced with the right strategies. 3. Develop Coping Mechanisms Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help manage stress and improve focus. Exercise: Regular physical activity can boost mood, energy, and cognitive function. Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques. 4. Build a Support Network Lean on Loved Ones: Share your feelings with trusted friends and family. Seek Professional Help: A therapist can provide guidance, coping strategies, and support. 5. Explore Treatment Options Medication: Discuss medication options with your doctor. It can be a valuable tool for managing symptoms. Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help develop effective coping skills and strategies. Lifestyle Adjustments: Explore accommodations and strategies to help you succeed at work, school, and home. 6. Give Yourself Time Be Patient: Adjusting to a new diagnosis takes time. Be kind to yourself as you learn to navigate your experiences. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge your achievements, no matter how small. Remember, you're not alone. Many adults with ADHD lead fulfilling lives. With the right support and strategies, you can thrive and overcome challenges. Why not schedule a consultation with JHD Counselling to see how we may be able to steer you in the right direction

Coming Out: Coping with Family and Friend Fallout

11 October 2024
National Coming Out Day is a time for LGBTQ+ individuals to celebrate their identities and live authentically. However, coming out can also be a challenging experience, especially when faced with negative reactions from family and friends. If you're experiencing fallout from coming out, know that you're not alone. Many LGBTQ+ individuals face similar challenges. Here are some tips to help you cope: 1. Prioritise Your Mental Health Seek support: Reach out to friends, family members, or a therapist who is supportive of your identity. Practice self-care: Engage in activities that help you relax and de-stress, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time in nature. Join a support group: Connecting with others who have gone through similar experiences can provide valuable support and understanding. 2. Set Boundaries Communicate your needs: Clearly express your boundaries to those who are struggling to accept your identity. Limit contact: If necessary, limit your contact with individuals who are causing you significant distress. 3. Build a Support Network Connect with the LGBTQ+ community: Join local LGBTQ+ organizations or online communities to find support and a sense of belonging. Reach out to friends and family who are supportive: Spend time with people who accept and love you for who you are. 4. Focus on Your Well-being Remember your worth: Your identity is valid and valuable, regardless of others' opinions. Celebrate your journey: Acknowledge the courage it takes to come out and celebrate your progress. At JHD/CHD, our founder, Carol, is a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community. We understand firsthand the challenges that can arise when coming out. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive care to individuals who are navigating their identities. If you're struggling to cope with fallout from coming out, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help you through this potentially difficult time.

Celebrating Black History Month

10 October 2024
Celebrating Black History Month! We're honouring pioneering people of colour in the counselling & therapy sector. Join us as we spotlight their incredible contributions and legacies that continue to inspire!  There have been numerous pioneering people of colour in the counseling and therapy sector. Their contributions have been invaluable in shaping the field and ensuring that culturally competent care is accessible to all. Here are a few notable figures: Mamie Phipps Clark and Kenneth Bancroft Clark: This husband-and-wife duo conducted groundbreaking research on the psychological effects of segregation on Black children. Their famous "doll study" played a pivotal role in the landmark Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education. Joseph L. White: A prominent figure in Black psychology, White founded the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPsi) in 1968. His work emphasised the importance of culturally relevant approaches to therapy. Linda James Myers: A pioneer in the field of multicultural counseling, Myers developed the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) for people of colour. Her work helped to address the lack of culturally appropriate assessment tools. Carl Rogers: While not a person of colour himself, Rogers' client-centered therapy approach has been influential in the development of multicultural counselling. His emphasis on empathy, unconditional positive regard, and genuineness has been adopted by many therapists working with diverse populations. These are just a few examples of the many pioneering people of color who have made significant contributions to the counseling and therapy sector. Their work has helped to dismantle systemic barriers and ensure that mental health services are accessible and culturally relevant for all.
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