Bittersweet celebrations: Counselor gives advice for grief
COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – The saying goes, ‘April Showers bring May Flowers,’ but what if those showers continue or get too hard to bear?
May is a season of celebration but also a time of grief for some people, pairing well with the theme of the month, Mental Health Awareness.
Whether it’s a graduation or the after-effects of Mother’s Day, Community Counseling Services has advice for navigating the tough season.
“Prom and all those things…when you’re used to having those people there or expect to have those people there, think about them, don’t exclude them…. If there is something going on, a wedding, Mother’s Day, have their pictures out if you can handle it. Include them in your celebration, even if it’s just putting a flower there,” said Veronica Harrison with Community Counseling Services.
Veronica Harrison is a nationally certified counselor and the Lowndes County Administrator for Community Counseling Services.
Harrison advises connecting with a community or reaching out to someone you trust when you’re dealing with grief.
“You need to talk to someone if you can. Be honest about what’s going on with you. If you need time away, take that time. Make sure to do things that are healthy,” said Veronica Harrison, LPCS.
Journaling and exercising are also methods for handling the load, but whether you’re grieving or just having a bad day, Harrison says caring for your mental health is important.
Setting boundaries is one of the first steps.
“What we’re doing with Mental Health Awareness Month is trying to break the stigma that’s associated with people receiving services or seeking services. If we can break the stigma, maybe we can help people get the help they need sooner, and people will be comfortable going to get the help,” said Harrison.
According to the Childhood Bereavement Estimation model, 1 in 8 children in Mississippi will experience death of a parent or sibling by age 18.
Community Counseling services offers affordable care for those who need assistance.
Lowndes County Community Counseling will be at different health fairs throughout the month.
Contact your local Community Counseling Services for more information on how to get help.
