SUPPORTING SUMMER GRIEF

Grieving in summer can be especially disorienting because the sunshine, social events, and

expectations of joy often clashes with the grieving experience. Here are some ideas to consider when thinking about supporting through experiences of grief this summer.

1. Acknowledge The Season is Hard

You do not have to feel okay just because the sun is shining. Grief does not follow a set

timeline. Be where you are emotionally, by acknowledging that this is a difficult journey.

2. Set Boundaries with Time and Plans

Summer can be full of gatherings and invitations to weddings, birthday parties, or other

celebrations. You are allowed to say no and set boundaries on your attendance. Many people often find it helpful to say “maybe” and then you always have the option of changing your mind.

3. Turn to Nature

While summer can feel overstimulating, it also offers gentle ways to soothe grief if you can turntowards nature. This may include going for morning walks before it gets hot, sitting quietly near water, gardening or tending to a plant, or catching the sunrise or sunset.

4. Create Your Own Rituals

Grief responds well to small rituals. Some ideas that can be helpful for summer could be writing your loved one a letter and leaving it somewhere that reminds you of them, making a playlist that connects memories of your loved one, or choosing a flower to plant at home that represents your loved one.

5. Connect With Support System

Grief can feel isolating, especially when it feels that others in your life are "moving on." Reach out to someone who can support you where you are at or consider joining a grief support group either in-person or online.

6. Give Yourself Grace

You do not have to be productive in order to get the most out of summer. If you find that you are just surviving most day, remind yourself that this is enough.

No matter what strategies you lean into this summer, know that you are doing your best to

manage a very difficult season of your life.

Submitted by: Walking Through Grief Society

Funded by FCSS; City of Lloydminster, Towns of Vermilion and Wainwright, Village of Kitscoty, and County of Vermilion River.