The holidays can be a time of joy for many people, but for those who have lost a loved one, this season can bring pain and loneliness. What can a survivor do to cope? Dr. Terri Erbacher, PhD, a psychologist at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, can discuss this and offer tips for those dealing with grief and loss around the holidays.
Dr. Erbacher says, “Establishing new rituals is key. For example, if Mom used to cook holiday meals, change that up a bit so that now, maybe dinner becomes a potluck. Or, if you and your spouse used to do holiday shopping together, perhaps now you do your shopping online, or shop with another family member or friend. It’s also important for those who know someone who has lost a loved one to continue to reach out, even after that first year. Clients tell me often that the first holiday after their loss, friends and family members rally around them, which makes it a bit easier. But after that first year, that rallying stops, and that client is often left feeling even lonelier.”
Dr. Erbacher has been a practicing school psychologist for the last 15 years. Her research areas include helping children in crisis and training school-based professionals, and she has often consulted with local school districts after a critical incident. In 2011, she was named Pennsylvania’s School Psychologist of the Year, and has received multiple awards for her service to the community, including recognition from the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. In addition, she has authored several publications on suicide prevention and ideation, including the forthcoming Suicide in Schools, to be released in December of 2014.
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