Simple remembrance of who has died by suicide comes with unique issues & feelings. Whether or not the death of a family member or friend was recent, the holiday season can produce waves of emotions, including sadness, guilt, and even anger. It is not uncommon for survivors to have as much (or more) trouble with the anticipation of the holiday season than the actual day of celebration. Survivors may start to fear the holidays months ahead of time and this fear can worsen as the holidays get closer.

Adina Wrobleski in her article, "Coping with Anniversaries and Holidays," suggests that when a survivor finds her/himself dreading a holiday, she/he should remember that the worst that can happen has already happened. You may be overwhelmed by emotions and tears, but this has happened before. "....You did get through it, and you will again."

Adina Wrobleski also suggests that survivors try something called "challenging." Try to imagine what the day willl be like. Try to make yourself feel the worst you can. Usually when you try to make yourself feel a particular way, you can't. Usually if you tell yourself to - Do your worst, I don't care - it has the effect of strengthening you because you are accepting the fact that you can take what comes."


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SOS Newsletter of Dane County Oct. 04